International Guitar Month is observed in April, and it’s the ideal time for everyone interested in playing the guitar to take steps toward realizing that goal. It’s also the perfect month for people who already know how to play the guitar to share their expertise with friends and family members.

Although the word “guitar” has been used to describe a wide variety of chordophones over the centuries, it’s believed to have its origins in the 12th century. Of course, no one really knows for sure when the modern acoustic guitar was invented, but we do know that it has provided music for billions of people all around the world, and that’s reason enough to celebrate it in April.

The History of International Guitar Month

International Guitar Month was created by the Guitar & Accessories Manufacturers Association (GAMA) and the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) in 1987. These two organizations created this month to promote retail guitar sales and support music stores all over the world.

Some Interesting Facts About Guitars

Let’s go over some interesting facts about guitars that we feel everyone can appreciate. We came across the following tidbits of information while we were researching this month, so let’s take a quick look at them before moving on.

• The English word “guitar” comes from the Spanish word “guitarra,” which was used to describe a medieval lute.
• It’s believed that many chordophones originated from Mesopotamia and Egypt over 4,000 years ago.
• The Academy of Science and Technology in Texas made a guitar that was 13 meters long and weighed over 2,255 pounds.
• In 1931, the first electric guitar was invented and nicknamed “The Frying Pan.”
• Some of the more popular modern guitars include the electric guitar, the folk guitar, the acoustic guitar, and the bass guitar.
• Other popular guitars include double-neck guitars and 12-string guitars.
• One of the most popular acoustic guitar colors is black. Red is the second most popular.
• The tombstone of Jimi Hendrix has a Stratocaster guitar carved into it.

Observing International Guitar Month

Visit a music store (either a brick-and-mortar store or online) and browse some guitars during this month, or take some music lessons to learn how to play the guitar. It’s also a good month to host a sing-along or a guitar-themed party. And while you’re celebrating this month, don’t forget to use the hashtag #InternationalGuitarMonth on social media to spread the word about it.