The Heartfelt Art of Naming Musical Instruments: A Personal Journey

Introduction

Have you ever thought about naming your musical instruments? Many musicians, both professional and amateur, do just that, often giving their instruments personal or meaningful names that reflect their relationship with the instrument. Naming an instrument can be a way to express affection, create a unique identity, or even provide a sense of continuity and history. This article explores the practice of naming musical instruments and shares some personal stories and insights from a flute player and a guitar owner.

The Flute and the Recorder: Different Instruments, Different Names

You've probably heard of flutes and recorders, but have you ever wondered if they are the same instrument? The truth is, they are as different as apples and oranges. Flutes are held horizontally and blown across an air hole, with buttons pressed to change notes. On the other hand, recorders are held vertically and blown into an air hole, with holes covered by fingers to change notes. Flutes are elegant and graceful, whereas recorders can be quite squeaky. Have you ever heard a kid play the recorder on YouTube? If so, you understand why everyone often shies away from this instrument. As a flute player, I can get very pissed when people mix them up, and it's not just me—many musicians feel the same way. The sound each instrument makes is distinctly different, adding to their unique character.

A Personal Touch: Naming My Ukelele and Guitars

As someone who plays multiple instruments, I’ve found that naming them can bring a special touch to my practice. For example, I named my ukulele Solar. While my guitars and other instruments remain simply “guitars,” “ukulele,” or “keyboards,” I’ve given an affectionate name to my guitar. I chose the name Solar for my ukulele, reflecting an appreciation for the warmth and brightness of the sun. My guitars, which I named simply “guitars,” feel like standard tools for playing music. They serve their purpose without the need for a fanciful name. I also have a couple of keyboards, some of which I term “keyboards,” while others, when feeling sentimental, are referred to as “synths.” Any random instruments, like zithers, mouth-organs, and xylophones, get mentioned in their functional terms. But here's the crucial part: if I name one instrument, I have to name them all. Otherwise, the others will get jealous! This rule ensures that every instrument in my collection is recognized and valued uniquely.

A Special Story: The Story Behind a Named Guitar

What about people who name their guitars not just out of affection but because of a significant person in their lives? Take, for example, a story about a guitar that holds a special place in the heart of the owner and their husband. This guitar, named Gordys 57, is part of a limited edition of only 57 guitars made by a particular brand. It features a special headstock and a tail light that lights up when the whammy arm is engaged. The couple chose this guitar because it represents a more than special person in their lives. They also have a prototype guitar that is gold and hasn't been named yet. This guitar sits right beside the Gordys 57 and holds its own unique significance. Here’s a picture to give you a glimpse of these special instruments.

Conclusion

Naming musical instruments is a unique and personalized practice that adds a special touch to the musician's relationship with their equipment. It's a way to show affection, create a sense of history, and provide a unique identity for each instrument. Whether you're a professional musician or a hobbyist, consider giving your instruments a name to deepen your connection with them. And if you have a story to share about naming your musical instruments, feel free to leave it in the comments below!

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