Naming Musical Instruments: A Personal Journey
Music is a powerful language that resides not only in the notes we play but in the names and stories we associate with our instruments. Whether it's a flute, a recorder, a ukulele, or a guitar, each instrument carries its own unique character and significance in the hands of a musician. This article explores the nuances of naming musical instruments, focusing on the personal stories and reasons behind such decisions.
Understanding Flutes and Recorders
It's common to confuse flutes and recorders, but these two instruments are distinctly different in both form and function.
Flutes, typically held horizontally, are blown across an air hole, with buttons pressed to change notes. In contrast, recorders are held vertically and blown into, with notes altered by covering different finger holes. While both can produce beautiful melodies, the distinctive sound of a flute is often described as graceful and elegant, while a recorder can come across as somewhat chaotic and monotonous to the experienced listener.
As a dedicated flutist, I can attest to the frustration of encounters where these instruments are mistakenly interchanged. It's perhaps worth noting that the squeaking and squawking associated with poorly played recorders might be why many consider them a symbol of annoyance and frustration in music.
Personal Instrument Naming Traditions
The naming of musical instruments often becomes a personal affair, reflecting the musician's relationship with each piece of their musical equipment.
I have a ukulele named Solar, chosen for its bright, sunny character. Similarly, my guitars, keyboards, and other instruments are given no specific names but are simply referred to by their types. This approach avoids the potential for one instrument to overshadow the rest or create an imbalance in my musical arsenal.
Unlike myself, another musician shares a different perspective. It's not uncommon for some musicians to name each instrument they own. With 45 guitars alone, one individual found it necessary to name each, eventually creating a system to keep track of them. One of the first guitars named was a 335, a beautiful Gibson model, which was given the name Kendra after a friend. Sadly, both the guitar and the friend met with unfortunate circumstances, serving as a poignant reminder of the investment we make in our instruments.
The Lack of Naming in Guitars
Interestingly, some musicians, despite owning multiple guitars, have never considered naming their instruments. This is particularly true for those who have played for decades without such a tradition. One 50-year guitar player admits to owning six guitars and a bass but has never thought of them as people or given them names.
This perspective is understandable, as guitars often serve a different purpose for musicians. They might be tools for practice, composition, and personal expression rather than companions or extensions of the self. However, for those who do name their guitars, the act can symbolize a deep connection and dedication to the instrument.
Why some musicians choose to name their guitars, while others do not, can be attributed to personal preferences, emotional connections, and the role the instrument plays in their life. Whether it's the elegance of a flute, the charm of a solar-powered ukulele, or the utility of a guitar, the act of naming these instruments can be a testament to the significance they hold in the world of music.