la tour bus guitare

Guitare Tourbus Acoustic

Guitare de voyage

La guitare de voyage acoustique ou électro-acoustique.

La guitare de voyage acoustique, la Tourbus Acoustic est la version acoustique de la Tourbus. Elle reprend ainsi la forme, les dimensions et le principe de pliage des Tourbus’caster , Tourbus Junior et Tourbus Prestige.

Elle est dotée d’un corps évidé en noyer avec une table en épicéa ou en noyer. L’ouie latérale projette directement le son vers le guitariste. Le manche vissé est en tilleul ou en noyer et la touche en noyer.

Le chevalet en noyer est doté d’un capteur piezzo lui donnant la possibilité d’être amplifié.

On peut ainsi avoir deux type de jeux. Un jeu purement acoustique avec la guitare non branchée. Le coffre de la guitare étant assez réduit, le volume sonore est idéal pour s’entendre, pour travailler, ou composer sans réveiller le voisinage direct, le tout en gardant un bon équilibre basses/ aigus.

Quand la guitare est branchée dans un ampli, on a un vrai son de guitare acoustique.

Encore plus légère que les versions électriques, elle pèse environ 1,5kg. Le corps reste parfaitement équilibré en position assise. Elle se joue également debout grâce aux deux attaches courroie, situés au dos.

Spécifications techniques

Essence : Noyer avec table en épicéa ou en noyer Finition  : huilé ciré

Essence du manche : Tilleul ou Noyer Essence de la touche  : Noyer Finition  : Naturelle Diapason : 628 mm Radius de touche  : 12 » Largeur au sillet : 43mm Truss rod  : Double action accès coté tête Nombre de frettes : 21. Profil standard Repères  : latéraux Sillet  : Os.

Jonction Manche/corps

Vissé 4 vis avec plaque inox.

Accastillage

Chevalet  : Noyer Mécaniques  : Gotoh SG360 Attache sangle : Type fender

Electronique

Micro chevalet : Piezzo Artec

Accessoires

Housse de transport : Cordura à 2 bretelles. Cordes : 10-46 Savarez

Poids guitare seule : 1,500 kg Poids guitare dans sa housse : 1,650 kg Longueur pliée  : 770 mm Largeur pliée  : 166 mm

Quelques exemples de modèles réalisés

Vous souhaitez essayez la guitare de voyage tourbus acoustic , liens vers articles de presse.

Article du webzine Audiofanzine

Article Magazine Guitarist Acoustic n°76

Les autres modèles de guitare de voyage

Lettre d’information

Vérifiez votre boite de réception ou votre répertoire d’indésirables pour confirmer votre abonnement.

Sebastien Gavet Guitars

The varied interests of Scarebear

52 Guitars, week 9—The Tour Bus Guitar

Sometimes when you go searching for unique guitars to add to your wish list you come across that little something that blows your mind. When guitars have been doing the same thing and have been built using the same technologies for so long, those little differences can really make you think. The Tour Bus guitar by  Sébastien Gavet is one of those guitars that blows your mind and makes you think.

I intentionally used the word little in my opening paragraph because it is the size of this guitar that is partially responsible for this guitar’s uniqueness. The main reason for this guitar’s uniqueness however is this guitar’s ability to transform from its initial size and design into something slightly larger while retaining the ergonomics that are commonplace on most modern guitars. You simply have to view the videos and animations on the Tour Bus Guitars website to see what I am talking about.

The image below shows you how the guitar looks when you are ready to play it. The extensions you see—the pieces protruding from the main body—blend perfectly into the back of the guitar when not in use. Carrying this guitar around is not dissimilar to carrying around a pool cue stick (or similarly sized small bag). This is even the case when you have a full tremolo on your guitar. I mention this because the customisation on these guitars is very impressive.

The guitars look amazing, sound amazing (in the videos mention previously) and are basically an amazing concept. You’ve got to love that.

Disclaimer: I’ve not played this guitar. I have not experienced the sound or feel of this guitar. That doesn’t matter. It looks awesome, it’s obviously played by winners and I want one.

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Hollywood Red Route First departure from Stop #1 Dolby Theater: 10.00 am.

Santa Monica Yellow Route First departure from stop #57 (1515 Ocean Ave.) at 9:30am.

Downtown Purple Route First departure from Stop #1 Dolby Theater: 10.00 am

Hollywood Red Route: Last full loop departs from Stop #1 Dolby Theater: 4:30 pm.

Santa Monica Yellow Route: Last full loop departs from stop #57 (1515 Ocean Ave.) at 4:13pm.

Downtown Purple Route: Last full loop departs from Stop #1 Dolby Theater: 3:00 pm.

City Sightseeing Los Angeles, Hop-On, Hop-off runs every day. Please check the operating schedule online before you travel, dates and times are subject to change.

Los Angeles is a large sprawling city, and it’s also a city full of one other thing… crippling traffic. Please be patient a bus in on the way. Call (323) 463-3333 and ask a helpful agent to see if a bus is heading your way soon.

You can purchase tickets online, from any Starline kiosk in front of the Dolby Theatre and on the bus! You can also purchase from your hotel concierge.

Yes, buses are available for private hire. Please have a look at our Charter page to find out more, or contact us directly, to discuss bespoke private tours.

Parking Garage Enter our underground parking garage from Highland Ave. in front of Loews Hollywood or on Orange Court between Hollywood Blvd. and Franklin Ave. Parking Rates: $2.00 every 20 minutes; $6.00 every hour Daily Maximum of $20.00 Enjoy up to 2 hours for $3 with validation by participating shops and restaurants. Valet Daily Maximum of $30.00

Explore Citysightseeing Los Angeles on StarLine’s Hop-On, Hop-Off double decker bus tour!

With the largest open-top Hop-on Hop-off City Sightseeing bus service in the world! Discover the many marvels of Los Angeles attractions on the ultimate customized tour in comfort and style!

Our Hop-On, Hop-Off bus route Services:

With action-packed routes crisscrossing Los Angeles, our Hop-On Hop-Off buses are perfect for visitors who want to explore L.A’s treasured destinations, with panoramic views from the top of a double-decker bus with pre-recorded tour guide narration. .

At your convenience simply hop off and once you’re ready hop back on the bus to continue your journey.

1. DOLBY THEATRE (STARLINE TERMINAL) 2. GUITAR CENTER, "ROCKWALK" 3. CHATEAU MARMONT  / LAUGH FACTORY 4. THE COMEDY STORE / SUNSET STRIP 5. LONDON HOTEL / WHISKY A GO GO 6. SANTA MONICA BLVD. / CHASE BANK 7. [Mon-Sat] 3RD ST/BEVERLY HILLS  [Sunday ONLY] REXFORD DR/BEVERLY HILLS 8. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL, BEVERLY HILLS 9. BEVERLY CENTER – SHOPPING 10. Academy Museum/LA BREA TAR PITS/ PETERSEN AUTO 11. FARMERS MARKET / THE GROVE 12. MELROSE AVENUE – SHOPPING 13. PINK'S HOT DOGS 14. VINE STREET / PARAMOUNT STUDIOS 15. HOLLYWOOD AND VINE / PANTAGES THEATRE

57. OCEAN AVE. / SANTA MONICA PIER 59. WILSHIRE / 3RD ST. PROMENADE 60. MONTANA AVE. / EUCLID ST 61. BRENTWOOD COUNTRY MART 63. WESTWOOD / UCLA / HAMMER MUSEUM 64. THE BEVERLY HILTON - WILSHIRE BLVD 7. [Mon-Sat] 3RD ST/BEVERLY HILLS  [Sunday ONLY] REXFORD DR/BEVERLY HILLS 51. THE BEVERLY HILTON - SANTA MONICA BLVD. 52. CENTURY PLAZA HOTEL 54. ONE WESTSIDE SHOPPING CENTER 55. SANTA MONICA COLLEGE / 17TH ST 83. VENICE BEACH 78. MAIN ST. / VISITOR CENTER

1. EL CAPITAN THEATER l 31. ENGINE CO. #28 / 7TH STREET 32. WESTIN BONAVENTURE HOTEL 33. WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL / MOCA 34. CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY 35. CHINATOWN - CENTRAL PLAZA 36. CHINATOWN - SHOPPING MALLS 37. OLVERA ST. /PUEBLO/UNION STATION 38. LITTLE TOKYO 39. GRAND CTR. MKT/ BRADBURY BLDG 40. CENTRAL LIBRARY / BILTMORE HOTEL 41. JEWELRY DISTRICT / L A THEATRE 42. FASHION DISTRICT / SANTEE ALLEY 43. CONVENTION CTR / STAPLES CENTER 44. L.A. LIVE / GRAMMY MUSEUM

Our easy-to-use online schedules and City sightseeing map, make it a breeze to plan your day. Allow 45 minutes between bus services at each stop, to plan your activities.

To learn more about our L.A. Hop-On Hop-Off bus services, or to book your trip, please give us a call at 1-800-959-3131 or (+1) 323-463-3333.

LA Traffic Disclaimer:  Please be prepared as the nation’s fifth most congested city for traffic the consequences maybe traffic-clogged delays and “time loss”

Package our Hop-On Hop-Off Hollywood bus tours with other sightseeing outings and save!

Why A Hop On Hop Off Tour is the Best Way to Explore a City

• You won’t miss out on major tourist sites.
• It’s a safe way to get around an unfamiliar city, Learn about each site and hear some interesting facts about the city as you explore!
• Discounts To Attractions
• Choose which places you want to stop at and how much time you want to spend there.
• The visuals that a tour bus offers certainly surpass anything you might see from a car by far.
• Buses are a convenient tour option, seeing the whole city for one reasonable ticket price.
• Meet Other Travellers
• Avoid Getting Lost / Wasting Time
• Great photos opportunities from the top of a double deck: Selfie, Pink Wall, Angel Wings, Urban Lights, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach. LA city, Hollywood sign.
• Eats: Pink’s Hot Dogs, Farmers Market, Taco Food trucks, Koreatown Yup Dduk LA. & Korean BBQ Restaurants.

Jimmy Kimmel Surprises Hollywood Tourists at the Oscars on one of our bus tours!

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6801 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles CA 90028

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“You can rehearse until you're blue in the face, but once you hit the stage and the lights go out, all bets are off”: Steve Vai and Adrian Belew tackle King Crimson classics as their much-anticipated Beat tour kicks off

The pair have joined forces with Tony Levin and Danny Carey to perform King Crimson’s 1980s albums across a sprawling 65-date tour

Steve Vai and Adrian Belew have finally kicked off one of 2024’s most anticipated live acts with the opening night of the Beat tour.

The pair formed Beat – a supergroup whose name was coined by Robert Fripp – for a tour that will see them play King Crimson’s trilogy of 1980s albums: Discipline, Beat, and Three of a Perfect Pair .

They’ve been joined by King Crimson alumni Tony Levin on bass and Tool drummer Danny Carey for the shows. Vai says he has been working “feverishly” to be stage-ready over the past five months.

The 65-date tour began in San Jose last Thursday (September 12), with the band delivering a 19-song show across two sets.

“The first show of a tour can be like a gauntlet,” Vai reflected on social media afterward. “You can rehearse until you're blue in the face, but once you hit the stage the lights go out and there’s a live audience eager to be entertained, all bets are off as to what it’s like in rehearsal. But the band delivered well and we were all relieved to get through a good first show.

“I’ve been fronting my band for the last 35 years and I discovered a very comfortable place on the Beat stage with master of ceremonies, Brother Adrian Belew at the helm. It is so enjoyable to play this historical music for such a passionate fan base. I discovered the sincere devotion of the audience for this music and the whole band felt their firm support.”

Indeed, a big part of Vai’s prep for the shows focussed on finding that balance between playing like himself and playing like Robert Fripp, who he is essentially replacing.

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Speaking to Guitar World , Adrian Belew, who spent just shy of two decades as the band’s co-guitarist alongside Fripp, had previously theorized about how the two guitar partnerships would compare.

“It really came to the point where Robert and I had separated into our own worlds,” he said. ”But I always said the perfect analogy was like two sides of the same coin. Because Robert has his approach, and I had my approach.

“I suspect Steve and I will end up being the same as Robert and me – a different version of it, of course, but two sides of the same coin.”

Footage from the opening night shows the band working through Man With An Open Heart , a song rich with chiming-yet-biting clean guitars, driven by Belew. But when it comes to the leads, there's a distinctly Vai-like flavor to the way they are delivered, complete with some subtle whammy bar wavers.

That trend continues on Heartbeat , with some overdriven volume swells and swish cleans coming from Vai's Ibanez signature guitar . It feels like a very natural marriage between the Fripp and Vai styles – something that will surely excite fans of both world-class players.

Of course, this is Steve Vai, who can make even the most finger-breaking shred look as simple as brushing your teeth. But in the five months leading up to the show, Vai wrestled with his abilities and his physical limitations in the wake of undergoing shoulder surgery.

A post shared by Steve Vai (@stevevaihimself) A photo posted by on

That surgery meant wielding his ridiculous Hydra guitar became a challenge. It also meant living up to Fripp's endurance and “the absolute relentlessness of what he does” made Vai's task all the more tricky.

“I am looking so forward to the roll out of this tour and being on stage with such seasoned and immensely talented bandmates,” Vai’s post concludes. “Not to mention they are all outstanding people that I enjoy being with. Thanks so sincerely to our San Jose audience for making this first show such an enjoyable experience.”

Head to Beat for details regarding the rest of the tour.

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A freelance writer with a penchant for music that gets weird, Phil is a regular contributor to Prog , Guitar World , and Total Guitar magazines and is especially keen on shining a light on unknown artists. Outside of the journalism realm, you can find him writing angular riffs in progressive metal band, Prognosis , in which he slings an 8-string Strandberg Boden Original, churning that low string through a variety of tunings. He's also a published author and is currently penning his debut novel which chucks fantasy, mythology and humanity into a great big melting pot.

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• The Solid Guitar

A very cool travel SG

• Thread starter Arx
• Start date Jan 18, 2013

• Jan 18, 2013

Active Member

• Jan 19, 2013

Ingenious idea. I did wonder about how much more portable they would be case wise than standard but there are some great photos on his site comparing size to a standard Hardcase and also a photo of a guy cycling with one on his back. The only thing I am wondering is what would the sound be like with so little wood surface area on the body. Glad to see the wood is mahoghony though. Would love to try one, very clever indeed. Thanks for posting :)  

Well-Known Member

Please understand, I love French design...but that really looks French. Like Matisse designed it or something.  

dbb said: Please understand, I love French design...but that really looks French. Like Matisse designed it or something. Click to expand...

saxosim said: Ingenious idea. I did wonder about how much more portable they would be case wise than standard but there are some great photos on his site comparing size to a standard Hardcase and also a photo of a guy cycling with one on his back. The only thing I am wondering is what would the sound be like with so little wood surface area on the body. Glad to see the wood is mahoghony though. Would love to try one, very clever indeed. Thanks for posting :) Click to expand...

The Rooster......  

3 Headed Moses

That's outstanding! Thanks for sharing this!  

Is that like a sideways vibrola?  

WTF! - Two piece body on a guitar that small? I KEED. I love it.  

Alex_SG said: I thought you were gonna say that being French, it blows! Never mind... Click to expand...

Let Me guess...the pickups in that are.....humcluckers?!..:).....needed to be said.  

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Turning The Tables

She can make that guitar talk.

The country's most distinguished gospel artist, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, arrived in Washington, D.C., to perform a sold-out concert. Sister Tharpe spoke to your reporter before her sold-out concert, sitting on her customized tour bus parked outside the venue. The bus — which Sister Thorpe believes is the first of its kind! — is emblazoned with the words SISTER ROSETTA THARPE - DECCA RECORDING ARTIST, painted in a bright and distinctive blue script along the side of the bus.

Sister Tharpe and her backing singers, the Rosettes, welcomed your reporter into the bus' interior. Inside, there are dedicated areas for dressing, eating, and sleeping. The Rosettes eagerly pointed out their dedicated sections of the bus, each featuring a closet and dressing area — no one has to share! Sister Tharpe noted that the line of mirrors running along one side of the bus, to be used for hair and makeup, was inspired by the mirrors installed in the luxurious Richmond, Va. home she shares with her singing partner, "Golden Voice Favorite" Madame Marie Knight, a young singer who was discovered by Sister Tharpe, as well as her mother, Katie Bell Nubin, a noted evangelist from the Church of God In Christ, who got her start at Pastor Robert's Chicago church.

The atmosphere inside the bus is charming and convivial. But its main purpose is an essential one: It assures that the ladies always have a comfortable and discreet place to prepare for their performances; they artists are able to dine in the bus, allowing them to carry-out food and not waste any time on the road. And the sleeping quarters conveniently allow the ensemble the ability to rest while traveling between concert appearances, especially in parts of the country where no suitable accommodation may be available.

When the troupe arrives at their destination they are met by large, sold out crowds. At a recent concert in Macon, Ga., Abner Jay, a disc jockey on local station WMAZ described the scene: "5,000 tickets were sold, that was the seating capacity. It's estimated that they turned down 6,000. I had never seen nothing like it or heard nothing like it. Downtown near the auditorium the whole streets were full of people, no cars. People — standing room only — trying to get to the auditorium two and three blocks away. I never seen nothing like it, nowhere."

Turning The Tables: 8 Women Who Invented American Popular Music

Rosetta Tharpe - Turning The Tables

While the information above is correct and documented in interviews with people who were there (like the Jordanaires' Gordon Stoker, who toured with Rosetta Tharpe in the time period she had her bus) published in the late '40s and early '50s, this article itself is pure invention — nothing quite like it exists in any historical newspaper archive. It's hard to comprehend that a successful singer with a truly national profile would be driving through American cities and along highways in a personalized tour bus of her own design — likely the first documented instance of what would become a music business necessity as well as a highly sought-after status symbol for musicians in every genre — without dozens of breathless articles capturing every fabulous detail of the musicians' surroundings, down to the quality of the finishes. The on-the-bus-with-the-musicians trope would become almost standard in artist profiles 20 years later.

Part of Turning The Tables is reflecting back on the originators, the women who defined the sound of popular music, who didn't get sufficient credit when they were working and, in many cases — Rosetta Tharpe being high on that list — have not received anywhere near enough credit from researchers, scholars and archivists. She only made it into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, decades after many musicians who were directly influenced by her were inducted into their rolls.

But let's imagine a world in which the opposite was true, and she was given her propers.

WEDDING BELLS RING OUT FOR ... SISTER ROSETTA THARPE WITNESS THE MOST ELABORATE WEDDING EVER STAGED! EVERYBODY IS WELCOME! PLUS WORLD'S GREATEST SPIRITUAL CONCERT!

On July 3, 1951, Sister Rosetta Tharpe married Mr. Russell Morrison at Washington, D.C.'s Griffith Stadium, along with 22,000 guests, a number which surpasses attendance for the Washington Senators baseball team, who make their home at the ballpark. Sister Tharpe appeared at the stadium last year and drew a crowd of 18,000 enthusiastic gospel fans.

Many of the paying customers also brought gifts for the bride and groom, such as silverware, rugs and other furnishings, household appliances, televisions, and other typical wedding presents. Tickets were priced at 90 cents for tickets in the upper deck, $2.50 for premium seating on the infield, close to the stage. A wide selection of souvenirs was available for purchase, including programs, lucky key chains and miniature Bibles.

On the bill for the post-ceremony concert included Madam Marie Knight, the Rosettes, jubilee quartet the Harmonizing Four, Katie Bell Nubin (Sister Tharpe's mother and renowned evangelist) and other melodious and/or holy attractions. Marie Knight was the bride's maid of honor, the Rosettes served as bridesmaids and Tharpe's former bandleader in her New York City days, Lucky Millinder, stood up as best man.

The wedding party began their procession at the third base dugout and proceeded to the stage, set up at second base. The bride entered the stadium to the "Bridal Chorus," wearing a stunning bridal outfit rumored to cost $1,500. The sensational white scoop-neck gown with full-length lace sleeves was graced with a five-foot train, and was topped with a beautifully sequined veil held in place by a stunning rhinestone and pearl tiara. She carried a large bouquet of 28 white orchids and white ostrich feathers.

After the ceremony, presided upon by the Rev. Samuel Kelsey from the Washington, D.C. Temple Church of God In Christ — which will be included on the upcoming extended player by Decca Records — the bride performed in her wedding dress, singing and playing her trademark electric guitar on songs such as "So High," and "God Don't LIke It." The concert ended around midnight, after a dramatic fireworks display which included an image of Sister Tharpe playing guitar. Following the wedding, Sister Tharpe and her troupe will be heading south for a week-long "honeymoon tour." "I am happier than I've ever been in my life!" the bride told reporters.

Another true confession: This article doesn't exist. It's an imagined account of the type of article that could very well have existed, in the same sort of gushing, affectionate tone directed towards Rosetta that you can find in the historical American Black newspapers of the day. The facts and information within the article above are, however, 100% true, pulled from the handful of articles that exist from sources such as the Baltimore Afro-American as well as Ebony Magazine, much of which is documented in Professor Gayle Wald's Shout, Sister, Shout , the only book dedicated to this rock and roll trailblazer. And this wasn't the first time Rosetta filled Griffith Stadium, or the first time she'd headlined a venue that could hold tens of thousands.

Now, compare that to the media saturation of the 1964 Beatles concert at the 8,000-capacity Washington Coliseum, which garnered coverage in all of the daily papers as well as the local news. While it's true that the accounts of shows like this one were also conveyed at the time with a mix of curiosity and disdain, the stateside arrival of the Fab Four is considered to be a critical event in rock and roll history, despite the fact that no one could actually hear any of the actual music over the rudimentary PA doing battle over thousands of screaming fans.

She was also as financially successful as the later stadium rockers: Even in her less productive years in the late '40s, Jerry Wexler (at that time, a writer for Billboard ) estimated Rosetta's yearly gross at around $200,000, which would be equal to over $2,000,000 today. While artist managers like Colonel Tom Parker and Brian Epstein would later be lauded for their merchandising ingenuity on behalf of Elvis Presley and the Beatles, the souvenirs available at the wedding at Griffith Stadium were viewed as a cheap ploy instead of the profit center artist merchandise would become. So why on earth isn't Rosetta Tharpe a well-known name?

It isn't as though we're asking history to elevate Rosetta's achievements by viewing them through a different angle; according to the standards set by the music business establishment, Sister Rosetta Tharpe was a wildly successful and influential artist. Elvis Presley loved Rosetta, and particularly admired her guitar playing; given that she took the Jordanaires, a vocal quartet who provided Elvis with backing vocals for almost two decades, out on the road with her in their early days singing gospel, it's unlikely that her flamboyant showmanship and financial success were unknown to the King, who would later be lionized for his own grand gestures. Why is her influence minimized to the point that it's barely allowed to exist?

Nashville, Tenn., September, 1962 : Today, Gibson Guitars is proud to announce its latest guitar model, the Sister Rosetta Tharpe Signature SG electric guitar.

Sister Tharpe has favored Gibson guitars for much of her career, utilizing the Barney Kessel, the L5 acoustic, the classic Les Paul, and the ES-330. Recently, with the release of the SG (which stans for 'solid guitar') in 1961, she has enjoyed both the lighter weight of the guitar, which makes it more comfortable for performance and touring use, combined with its thinner and redesigned neck, which allowed Sister Tharpe greater ease to execute her use of chromaticism, the fast triplet licks she favored, as well as her love of double-stops.

Gibson was only too happy to work with this musical innovator to design a signature version that takes advantage of the SG's warmth and articulation, fast and comfortable neck, and deep-sounding pickups. Given that Sister Tharpe most often accompanies herself, without benefit of backing musicians, she relies on the richness of her guitar's tone as her sole accompaniment. Additionally, the reduced weight provides her with greater freedom in performance onstage, and better accommodates Sister Tharpe's trademark movement and physicality.

"She can make that guitar talk!" Sister Tharpe's fans are fond of saying. Now professional and amateur players alike can try their hand at Rosetta's unique style with the Rosetta Tharpe Signature SG, available in a range of finishes, including the artist's favorited white body.

Rosetta began playing guitar at the age of six, accompanying her mother, a traveling evangelist for the Church of God In Christ. She was a child prodigy who would go on to develop her own technique, a unique style of fingerpicking that wasn't simple accompaniment, but rather a way to expand her sound by providing a contrasting melody line to her vocals. As Gayle Wald points out, "This ...was a strategy for being heard, for acoustic guitars, unlike pianos, possessed little if any resonance." So in the loud environments of the Sanctified Church, where the congregants were encouraged to vocalize and 'make a joyful noise unto the Lord,' and on the streets of Chicago, where Katie Bell Nubin held street meetings supported by her young daughter, Rosetta's playing style embodied both practicality and panache.

She made the switch from acoustic to electric guitar around 1947, by which point she had already been playing guitar for 25 years. Her mastery of the electric instrument was equal to her command of the acoustic; Chicago-based gospel singer Geraldine Gay Hambric told Gayle Wald, "When Chuck Berry came out, I had seen all that." (Berry himself has been quoted as saying that his entire career was "just one long Rosetta Tharpe impersonation.") Others lucky enough to see Rosetta perform remember her physicality with the instrument, that they all said was "playing the guitar like a man." A music director of a Brooklyn-based Pentecostal church asserted that Rosetta could play the guitar behind her head or lying down on the floor. A 1951 ad for an appearance in Detroit is billed as, "Sister Rosetta Tharpe - Great Decca Recording Star! - In Person - Her Guitar and Co." So it definitely would have made sense if Gibson Guitars had taken one look at this artist's innovation and long association with its brand, and created a custom model for her, right?

No, of course they didn't. (I'm sure you're all sensing a theme here.) Rosetta was a spokesperson for Royal Crown Cola ("Sister Tharpe's clues for chasing the blues...") and did a radio PSA on the dangers of syphilis, but Gibson Guitars never paid any type of tribute to a successful working musician who visibly favored their instruments for decades. Rosetta was highly skilled at promotion; she kept the Black press fed with press releases and colorful stories, usually accompanied by a photograph of Rosetta smiling and playing guitar, which you can find in historical archives in papers from Cleveland to Los Angeles, Kansas City to Arkansas, Chicago to Philadelphia.

In 1957, at the height of the rock and roll explosion in the U.S., Rosetta was largely forgotten. That's when Chris Barber, a British musician who led a popular "trad jazz" band, invited her on a three week tour of the U.K. that would take her to 20 cities. She was an instant sensation, received enthusiastically in England as well as on the continent. Rosetta would return several times, garnering headlines on her third U.K. visit reading, "Beatle Boosters Defect: Bristolites Dig Blues Singer Sister Tharpe" and noting that fans stood outside the historic Corn Exchange to see her. As Bob Dylan astutely stated, "I'm sure there are a lot of young English guys who picked up an electric guitar after getting a look at her."

There's a music store in Nashville called Fanny's House of Music. On the side of their building, there's a giant mural featuring guitar players, not much different than what you'd see in any music store anywhere in the world, really. But instead of a pantheon of the obligatory male guitar heroes set up in some kind of pyramid arrangement leading up to Eric Clapton or Jimmy Page, things look very different. At the forefront, you have Suzi Quatro, Maybelle Carter, Barbara Lynn — and Sister Rosetta Tharpe. In the background, everyone from Joni Mitchell to Joan Jett. It's less some kind of radical rethinking than a quiet assertion of truth.

• Sister Rosetta Tharpe

How to become a touring guitarist

In this article we will show you what it needs to become a touring guitarist.

Becoming a touring guitarist is a dream for many musicians. Being able to travel the world, perform on stage, and make a living out of your passion is an incredible opportunity. Anyone who’s considering pursuing this dream must know that it’s not an easy path and requires a lot of hard work, dedication time, and talent. 

However, it’s not impossible to achieve. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what it takes to become a touring guitarist, from honing your skills to securing gigs and building a fanbase.

1. Develop your guitar skills

The first step to becoming a touring guitarist is to become a master of your instrument. This means putting in the hours of practice and studying the styles of the greats. 

• Educate yourself in the techniques of your favorite guitarists. 
• Learn how to play in the style of whoever you want to go on tour with.

There are a lot of amazing players out there, often with more experience than you, but here’s the good news: you don’t need to be the best guitarist in the world to get a gig as a touring guitarist.

While becoming an advanced and well-rounded guitarist is key, many touring guitarists are selected because they specialize in a particular style of guitar. Dive deep into your favorite style of choice, and make sure the world knows about it.

This brings us to our next point.

2. Network, network, network!

Ever hear the cliché ‘ Your network is your net worth ’? It’s true. Networking is crucial for any musician. It’s rare that a touring guitarist gig just falls into your lap. If you ask most touring guitarists how they got picked up to go on tour, 99% of the time it’s because someone they know in the music industry recommended them for the gig. 

This might be disheartening at first, but in-person and online networking is achievable for everyone – even introverted players. In today’s digital world, most players network via social media because it allows you to connect with musicians all over the world. However, don’t underestimate the power of a handshake. Expanding your network in the real world is often more powerful than sending some messages back and forth online.

Here are some ideas for local networking opportunities:

• Attend local concerts
• Participate in different open mics in your area
• Seek out local musicians online and meet up with them for in-person jams

These connections could lead to future collaborations and touring opportunities. In the music industry, the line between friend and musical business partner is often blurry – those who can make friends easily often succeed in the music industry. Relationships go a long way, and one chance meeting could change everything – look what happened with Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.

3. Learn music theory (enough to communicate)

Music theory is the backbone of all musical composition, and a strong understanding of it will help you to become a better guitarist. Study the fundamentals of music theory, including scales, chords, and harmony. Well rounded knowledge of these concepts will help you to improvise, write original music and collaborate with other players.

It’s rare that you’ll need to know advanced theory to become a touring guitarist. Nine times out of 10, you won’t be asked to sight read music or analyze music on the spot. However, you should know how to:

• Communicate using the number system
• Transpose songs to a different key
• Play licks by ear
• Find the key of a song and improvise to it by ear

4. Build a strong online presence

In today’s digital age, it’s essential to have a strong online presence. This means having: 

• Active social media accounts
• A website or place to display a digital portfolio of your work. 

Share your music, videos, and photos regularly, and engage with your followers. You don’t need one million followers to get a gig, but you can’t deny the social proof of having a strong digital presence. Building a strong online following will help you to reach a wider audience and potentially secure more gigs.

5. Play live and collaborate as much as possible

One frustration of trying to become a touring guitarist is that, getting a gig is often out of your control . Focus on creating and playing the type of music you want to play on tour, and people will take notice. 

Playing live is one of the best ways to build your reputation. Start by playing at local venues, and gradually work your way up to larger shows. 

Collaborating with other musicians is a great way to learn, grow and build your reputation. Join a band, or work with other musicians on projects, to develop your skills and reach new audiences. If you’re starting from scratch, it will likely take years before you get a call for a tour. Keep your head down, and keep working on your craft.

6. Learn additional band skills

At minimum as a touring guitarist, you should know how to sing harmonies. If you’re not a singer, don’t be scared! With consistent practice, almost anyone can develop an ear for harmonies. You don’t have to be a great singer – you just have to learn how to sing with accurate pitch (which, yes, everyone can do) and blend your voice with others to support a lead singer.

Knowing how to play synth, run backing tracks on Ableton, and other instruments will all give you a leg up if you’re in the running for a touring gig. While you should lie and say you can play the saxophone if you’ve never picked one up before, you don’t have to be a master of these skills – usually, you’ll be able to get by with an intermediate level of skill on auxiliary instruments.

7. Invest in quality equipment

Having quality equipment is crucial, so invest in a good guitar, amp, and pedals, and make sure that your equipment is reliable and in good working order. Often, you’ll need to craft your guitar tone to match a part on an artists record. A multi-FX pedal goes a long way for this, as it saves you from having to invest in expensive pedals.

8. Learn how to think on your feet

As a touring guitarist, your job is to be a seamless cog in the musical machine that supports the rest of the band. Things tend to go wrong in a live setting – like technical issues and miscommunications. If you can think fast under pressure and make your band feel supported, you’ll solidify your worth and place on tour. For example, let’s say the lead singer’s mic goes out, and the band needs to buy some time. You better be ready to tastefully improvise with the rest of the band while keeping a smile on your face until the problem is solved.

9. Learn to play with ‘tude

As a touring guitarist, you’re stepping into the world of showbiz. Think your hot licks alone are enough to get the gig? You’ll be surprised when the guy with half of your guitar talent wins your seat on tour because he can jump around and bang his head to the beat of the song while looking like he’s having the time of his life. Before auditioning with a band, watch their live performance and match your stage presence to theirs. 

10. Be professional, reliable, and a good hang

It's essential to be professional and reliable in everything you do. This means showing up to gigs, and having everything ready to go. If you break a string onstage and do not have a replacement string, that may be your final gig! Finally, don’t forget that a massive part of touring involves hanging out together. If the band who’s considering you doesn’t think they can spend 10 hours on a tour bus with you, it doesn’t really matter how talented of a guitarist you are.

In conclusion, becoming a touring guitarist is a challenging but rewarding journey. By honing your skills, building a strong online presence, playing live, collaborating with other musicians, and staying organized and positive, you can reach your goal and become successful. Remember, success takes time, patience and perseverance, so stay focused on your guitar goals and never give up on your dreams.

Author: John Savannah

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The Ultimate Guide To Traveling With Your Guitar

Why travel with your guitar.

Traveling with your guitar can be a rewarding and enriching experience. Not only does it provide a means of musical inspiration and practice while on the go, but also presents an opportunity to earn income. Despite the numerous benefits, many guitarists are often deterred from traveling with their guitars due to common misconceptions.Many people believe that traveling with a guitar is too challenging, that it’s too bulky and inconvenient, and that it’s too risky due to the possibility of damage or loss. However, with a bit of research and preparation, it’s entirely feasible and safe to travel with your guitar. In fact, traveling with your guitar can even enhance your experiences and help you meet new people. In this article, we’ll take a look at why traveling with a guitar is worth considering, and how to do it effectively.

Let’s start by dispelling some of the common misconceptions about traveling with a guitar. While it’s true that guitars can be quite bulky and require some careful handling, it’s very possible to travel with them safely and without issue. Moreover, traveling with your guitar not only provides opportunity for practice, inspiration and performance, it can also be a source of income. Many musicians have found success traveling and performing around the world, and you could too. With the right preparation and approach, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to take your guitar with you wherever you go.Continuing from the previous paragraph, in the following sections of this article we’ll be discussing in more detail why traveling with your guitar can be beneficial, as well as some practical tips on how to do so safely and comfortably. We’ll look into the main criteria to consider when selecting a guitar for travel, recommended models, and tips for sourcing affordable travel guitars. Then, we’ll explore the proper way to pack your guitar for travel and the tools you’ll need. We’ll also provide tips on how to best transport your guitar during transit and navigate through airports, bus and train stations, and other travel scenarios with your guitar. Finally, we’ll conclude with some final thoughts on traveling with your guitar and how to make it a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Choosing the Right Guitar

Criteria to consider when selecting a guitar for travel.

When it comes to choosing a guitar for travel, it’s important to consider a number of factors. A guitar that’s great for playing live gigs might not be the best choice for travel, especially if you’re going to be flying or taking public transportation. The first criteria are portability and durability. Ideally, you want an instrument that can be easily transported, and that won’t get damaged in transit. The second criteria are sound quality. A guitar that’s small and easy to carry might sound ok, but if it doesn’t sound great, you won’t enjoy playing it. Finally, you need to think about your budget. While you can spend a lot of money on a travel guitar, you don’t have to. There are good quality options available at a range of price points.

Considering these criteria, there are a few types of guitar that are particularly well-suited for travel. One option is a parlor guitar, which is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry. Another option is a travel-specific guitar, which is designed to be compact and durable, often with features such as collapsible necks or detachable bodies. If you already have a guitar that you love, you can also consider a gig bag or a hard case designed for travel, which can help protect your instrument and make it easier to transport. When shopping for a travel guitar, be sure to try out a few different models before you make a decision, and consider factors such as comfort, playability, and sound quality.There are a variety of brands that offer travel-specific guitars, like the Martin Backpacker and the Taylor Baby series. But if you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider checking out used instrument stores or online marketplaces like Reverb or eBay. You can often find good deals on compact guitars that are in good condition. Additionally, many big-name guitar manufacturers also offer travel-sized versions of their popular models, so you can shop for guitars from brands you already know and trust. Remember, the most important thing is to find a guitar that fits your needs and your budget, and that you feel comfortable playing.

Packing Your Guitar for Safe Travel

If you’re on a tight budget, there are a few things you can do to save money without sacrificing quality. One option is to look for off-brand guitars that offer good quality at a lower cost. Brands like Rogue and Jasmine offer good quality travel guitars at a fraction of the cost of name-brand models. Another option is to look for used instruments. Many guitarists are looking to sell their older travel guitars when they upgrade, so you can often find good deals on used instruments in good condition. Finally, consider shopping during sales or using coupons or promo codes to save money on your purchase. Remember, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on a travel guitar to get a quality instrument that will serve you well on the road.

When you’re choosing a guitar for travel, it’s important to remember that your needs may differ depending on the type of travel you’ll be doing. If you’re going to be flying, for example, you’ll need to consider the guitar’s size and weight, as well as any airline policies regarding carry-on luggage. If you’ll be taking trains or buses, you may need to be more concerned with the guitar’s durability and the ease of packing and unpacking the instrument. Additionally, if you’re planning on playing shows or busking while you travel, you’ll need to factor in sound quality, as well as the availability of gear like amplifiers and mic stands.

Other things to consider include the climate and weather conditions of the places you’ll be traveling to. Extreme temperatures, humidity, and sudden changes in climate can all take a toll on a guitar, so you may need to take extra precautions to protect your instrument. Finally, be sure to factor in your own playing style and preferences. If you typically play on a large-bodied guitar, for example, you may find a smaller travel guitar uncomfortable or difficult to play. Consider trying out a few different models to find one that feels right for you.In addition to these tips, it’s also important to remember that caring for your guitar while you travel is essential. This means taking the time to properly pack and unpack your instrument, storing it in a safe and secure place, and checking it regularly for signs of damage or wear. By following these guidelines and taking care of your guitar while you travel, you can ensure that it will stay in good condition and provide you with many happy hours of playing, no matter where your adventures take you.It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case of damage or theft to your guitar, especially if you rely on your instrument for income. This could mean carrying a spare set of strings or even a spare guitar, just in case something happens to your main instrument. In conclusion, traveling with your guitar can be a highly rewarding experience, whether you’re playing shows, busking on the street, or just jamming with friends in new and exciting locations. By choosing the right guitar, packing it properly, and taking good care of it while you travel, you can enjoy all the benefits of bringing your music with you on the road.

Tips for Traveling with Your Guitar

How to best transport your guitar while in transit.

Packing your guitar for travel can be stressful, especially if you’re worried about it getting damaged while in transit. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can ensure that your guitar stays safe throughout your journey. The first step is to invest in a high-quality guitar case that provides ample protection for your instrument. A hardshell case is recommended, as it provides the most protection against impact and puncture. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that the case is properly padded and that your guitar is snugly secured inside.When packing your guitar, it’s important to remember to loosen the strings slightly to help relieve tension on the neck. This will help prevent any damage to the structural integrity of your guitar while it’s being transported. It’s also a good idea to add some extra padding around the headstock and body of your guitar. This can be done by using bubble wrap or by stuffing some clothing around these areas. When packing your guitar in a soft case, be sure to place it in a sturdy box to avoid damage during rough handling.

Another important aspect of packing your guitar is to label your case with your name and contact information. This will not only ensure that you can be contacted in case your guitar gets lost, but it will also make it easier for you to spot your case among other similar-looking cases at baggage claim. It may also be helpful to take photos of your guitar before packing it, so that you have documentation of its condition in case of damage during transit.Finally, it’s a good idea to check your airline’s policies regarding musical instruments. Some airlines require that you purchase an extra seat for your guitar, while others allow you to stow it in the overhead compartment or in checked baggage. Knowing your airline’s rules ahead of time can save you a lot of stress and hassle at the airport.When packing your guitar, it’s essential to take into account the climate of your destination. Extreme temperatures and humidity can cause irreversible damage to your guitar’s wood and finish, so it’s important to pack your guitar in a climate-controlled environment. This can be accomplished through the use of a humidity-controlled case and/or a humidity monitor. When traveling to a humid climate, you may also want to consider storing your guitar in a sealed plastic bag with a desiccant to prevent the buildup of moisture. Similarly, when traveling to a dry climate, you may want to consider a guitar humidifier. Remember to always use caution when adjusting your guitar’s humidity levels, especially if you are in an unfamiliar environment.

In addition to the precautions outlined above, there are a few additional items you may want to consider packing with your guitar. Guitar straps and cables are essential if you plan on playing at your destination or if you want to jam on the go. If you’re flying, you’ll need to pack any wires or cables in your carry-on baggage, as they are not allowed in checked luggage. You may also want to pack a small toolkit with a screwdriver, pliers, and other tools for minor repairs. This can be especially helpful if you encounter any issues with your guitar while on the road. A portable tuner can also be handy, as it allows you to keep your guitar in tune no matter where you are.While it may seem overwhelming at first, traveling with your guitar can be a rewarding and inspiring experience. Following the above tips and being prepared can help ensure that your guitar stays safe and sound, providing you with a source of comfort and inspiration on the road.

One final tip for packing your guitar is to consider purchasing travel insurance. While it may seem like an unnecessary expense, travel insurance can provide peace of mind in case of accidental damage, loss, or theft of your guitar. Many insurance companies offer music instrument coverage specifically tailored to musicians who travel, so it might be worth looking into if you’re planning on traveling frequently with your guitar. Additionally, be sure to check whether your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers musical instruments, as this can also provide some protection when traveling.

By utilizing the tips listed above, you can ensure that your guitar stays safe and sound during your travels. Though there may be some upfront preparation and consideration to take into account, the reward of being able to play music in new and exciting places is well worth the effort. With the right tools and mindset, your guitar can become a trusted travel companion and source of inspiration for years to come.When packing your guitar, don’t forget to consider the weight of your instrument and the weight allowance for your mode of transportation. Traveling with a heavy guitar can be difficult, especially if you’re lugging it around a new city or navigating public transportation. Look for lightweight travel guitars if possible, or consider bringing a ukulele instead. Ukuleles are highly portable and can be a great alternative to bring on trips. They’re also significantly less expensive than most guitars, so you won’t have to worry as much about them getting damaged or lost during transit. Just remember to do your research on the best ukuleles for traveling, as some models may not provide the same level of quality or playability as others. With these tips in mind, you can travel with your guitar with peace of mind and enjoy creating music on the road.When traveling with your guitar, it’s essential to plan ahead and familiarize yourself with the regulations of your mode of transportation. Certain airlines and buses have specific rules and restrictions in place for carrying musical instruments. For example, some airlines require that you purchase an extra seat for your guitar, while others allow you to take your guitar as carry-on baggage, check it in as luggage, or include it in your checked baggage weight allowance. It’s important to check with the airline or bus company in advance to avoid any issues on the day of travel. Remember to also pack only essential items with your guitar and leave behind anything you can’t afford to lose. This will reduce the risk of damage and loss during transit, and make it easier to keep your guitar safe and secure during your travels.

Hi there! I’m Casey Marshall, a guitar enthusiast and repair specialist. With years of experience playing and repairing guitars, I’ve developed a deep understanding of the instrument. Through this blog, I share tips and advice on guitar repair and maintenance, as well as insights into the world of guitar playing.

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