Essential Accessories and Gears for the Classical Guitarist

Written By Yenne Lee

A good classical guitar is only the first step! To truly succeed in your guitar studies, you need a few key pieces of equipment.

If you are still shopping for an instrument, please refer to our previous posts for guidance:

  1. Differences Between Classical Guitar and Acoustic Guitar

  2. Classical Guitars (and Accessories) for Beginners

If you already have your guitar, read on for the essential and non-essential gear you'll need to start practicing effectively.

(Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.)

Essential Accessories and Gears for Classical Guitar

These items are considered must-haves for every serious beginner.

(Prices are listed as of November 2025.)

1. Guitar Bag or Case

You will need a guitar bag or case if you plan to transport your guitar outside of your home or if you need a safe place to store it when you’re not using it.

2. Guitar Stand

I believe a guitar stand serves two valuable purposes:

  1. It keeps the guitar easily accessible, encouraging practice. Sometimes, when my guitar is put away in its case, I find myself skipping practice because I'm too lazy to take it out!

  2. It looks wonderful! Displaying your guitar on a stand adds a nice warmth and artistic vibe to any room.

3. Guitar Footrest

A specific posture is required for classical guitar technique, making a guitar footrest an essential tool. While other types of support exist that attach to your left leg, I recommend starting with a standard footrest before exploring those alternatives.

4. Guitar Tuner

While various free and paid tuner apps are available online, it is always a good idea to have a dedicated physical tuner readily accessible. D’Addario tuners are particularly good, as they are designed with the classical guitar headstock in mind.

5. Music Stand

When reading music or looking at sheet music, using a desk or a table can lead to poor playing posture. For anyone serious about playing, a music stand is crucial for maintaining correct alignment.

6. Backup Strings

It's always a good idea to have a spare set of strings on hand, as they can break unexpectedly. Classical guitar strings mainly come in two types:

  1. Nylon strings are thicker, producing a rounder sound, and are generally better for beginners.

  2. Carbon strings are thinner, resulting in a brighter sound.

Secondary Accessories for Classical Guitar

These items are non-essential but will enhance your practice and experience.

1. Metronome

A metronome is a device that produces steady clicking sounds, allowing you to practice with consistent beats and develop your sense of rhythm. While metronome apps are widely available, having a physical metronome can help you avoid the distractions that come with using your phone.

2. String Winder

Changing strings can be a tedious and strenuous task. A string winder will save you energy and time by quickly turning the tuning keys! Many models also come with a handy string-cutter function.

3. Capo

A capo is a small clamping device placed on the guitar neck to change the key of the music without changing fingerings. While classical guitarists generally do not use a capo, having one is highly recommended if you plan to use the guitar to accompany your singing.

4. Nail Files and Buffers

Many serious classical guitarists play using the fingernails on their right hand. This requires careful maintenance of their length, shape, and smoothness for optimal tone. You will need a strong, rough nail file (often metal or glass) for shaping and a smooth nail buffer for fine-tuning your sound.

Start Strong with Beginner Group Lessons

The first few weeks of guitar study are the most crucial for developing playing habits that can last a lifetime. It is far better to learn correct techniques from a qualified teacher than to try to navigate materials on your own. While many pre-recorded video lessons are available, a hands-on approach from a real person is invaluable for beginners.

If you are interested in joining my beginner online group lessons, please reach out to me using the contact form: oliveguitar.com/contact.

🫒

Yenne Lee
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Classical Guitars and Accessories for Beginners