...and it sounded nothing like I expected!

In this video, I'm comparing picking classical guitar with nails vs picking without nails. I'll show you the differences in how the strings sound and feel.
If you're thinking about playing classical guitar, it's important to understand the different picking techniques available. Maybe this video will help you decide which one is best for you, based on your playing style and tonal preferences.
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[@beatrixguitar]

What do you think about the differences? Which sound do you prefer? 😀 If you enjoyed the video, please consider to support my work on Patreon: www.patreon.com/beatrixguitar

[@JuanLopez-yf6hl]

I personally liked very much without the nails that produces a more natural and warm sound, however we sacrifice color....

[@ThatGenericDude]

A little tip. Pascal Rosche wrote in a nutshell that one should focus with a strong ring finger as it tends to be the slacker without nails. Try looking up McKellop and his work, or Sor's lessons/method.

[@kumosworkshop]

I have always wanted to jump into Classical Guitar, but never found a teacher plus I always destroyed my nails with manual labor. Now my pinky nail has been having growth issues, so I guess I'll just have to be a no nails player. 😅

[@willfreeman-xc1dv]

Your song played without nails was beautiful. I switched to playing with no nails for the softer sound.

[@viangallifrancois2568]

I prefer without nails, the sound is immaterial. But you play very well with nails, also.

[@spincolor]

No nails sounds so much more beautiful and has a lovely warmth to it. It's much more emotional playing.

[@gastastana1288]

i personally think it does not sound better AND speaking with experience its way harder to play

[@beastinthesky6774]

I think I prefer the tone of no-nails, it's just very warm, cozy, and organic. I imagine it takes some getting used to.

[@beatrixguitar]

very interesting, thanks! I'm very surprised to hear how many people enjoyed the no nail tone more!

[@nathanalexander5772]

@@beatrixguitar I know nothing, but in my ignorant opinion, with nails, you hear the bright attack more, with a much quicker drop off in volume. Without nails, you get more of the string tone, because, lacking the bright attack of the nails, a guitarist probably uses more force to get the same volume...resulting in a fuller tone and more sustain? Dunno.

[@loriv.8986]

I was told that you should be using a little nail and a little of the flesh of the finger to create a fat, warm sound.

[@blopartDGRI]

Yes, it feels so "intimate"!! Especially on slower pieces, like Tárrega. On faster ones and for chords it's worse though.

[@Morten_Jaeger]

I think you are spot on here!@@nathanalexander5772

[@mochipepper]

No nails for me. I'm impressed that you had no trouble playing Recuerdo without your nails. Bravo.

[@greenrumour]

i think the sound of nylon strings sounds better without nails, soft warm and wonderful. Either way your playing is lovely.

[@bradwitt4672]

My preference is "no nails"... softer, warmer, but I understand your preference as well, especially after so many years. Well done.

[@colindawson6076]

Much better with no nails = lovely playing = Thank you ❤🎸

[@user-hm4ip5jz7y]

I liked the sound without the fingernails, I really love it. Much softer, a bit vague, but so sentimental. Many thanks for the experience.

[@StephiSensei26]

Over the years, I've tried both ways to some level of satisfaction and disappointment with both. Finally, I now try to keep my playing nails at only a few mm (2 or 3mm max) in length beyond my fingertips. This has several advantages: 1.) They are stronger now, than when they were longer. 2.) They don't break or chip as often. I don't coat my nails in any way, just natural growth. And, I save a lot of money on Crazy Glue! 3.) I very much enjoy the tactile control I achieve when I plant my fingertip before I pluck the string. My fingers feel "more intelligent". Thank you Beatrix.

[@bobhoof1362]

Long time ago I had a instructional book by Segovia. That was his suggestion and to just follow the fingertip shape.

[@cesarmarolla1602]

The tone of no nails just your fingertips is just beautiful, and as most guitarists play with "nails " it gives you a different approach and uniqueness.

[@AMMS10]

As a flamenco player, we play with short nails. The nail should follow the same curvature of the tip of your finger. But thumb nail should be longer but not too long. Olé

[@bobsiburton861]

Nails would drive me nuts, so I will be glad to be anywhere near as you without nails, no nails sound pretty good to me❤

[@nategonzalez4228]

It's just so much easier to play with nails, the control, tone and clarity are unmatched, at least for me but to each their own ofc. Beautiful guitar btw!😍

[@jackosniper4291]

i actually used to play with nails then i heard that Fransisco Tarrega my favorite composer used to play without nails so i cut them off at first it was really hard at first then i got used to it now i prefer it more than nails. Very good and high quality content btw

[@beatrixguitar]

I have very short nails now and I kinda like it, feel like a good compromise. Thanks for your comment!

[@NoName-xi8yr]

@@beatrixguitar i am guitar newbie, and also have short nails, but long enough to use them(about 3 mm). So, i use finger + nail. Too long nails is not handy for me. Sound extracted without nail is too silent and not bright. It is good for bass strings(they are more louder and easier to extract sound without nail, and sound much better when you extract sound from them without nail), but it is totally not good for other strings.

[@ohoangthien1551]

THE BEST PART IS NOW YOU DON'T NEED TO CARE ABOUT KEEP THE NAILS HEALTHY AND BEING IN GOOD SHAPES ANYMORE :D THE REASON I SWITCH TO NO NAILS IS MY NAILS ARE WEAK AND ALWAYS BROKE.

[@jackosniper4291]

I think eating food like spinach and bok choy can help because they contain iron and calcium which both help strengthen your nails.

[@stevenbenson5784]

I enjoyed both. However I found no nails warmer, not as sharp. Different quality altogether. A bit more soothing.

[@alimatooq827]

I already started to play without nails , You gave me motivation to continue without them,

[@beatrixguitar]

glad to hear that! rock on!

[@euhdink4501]

My 50 years old dilemma! Studied classical with nails and then went to the lute without nails, leaving the classical guitar because I coudn't adapt. Then I played arch and baroque lute with nails again. When I became a 'pro' I switched to fingerpicking and electric with a pick. Even used nails while fingerpicking! I guess my nails are very strong. Now I'm retired and still only doing classical. I use nails but keep them very very short and use my r-thumb without nail, that sounds so sweetly. And ... having them short is very handy as a handyman.

[@jamesduncan578]

My vote is no nails, much warmer tone. you just to get used to it and work on your attack. I always enjoy your playing. Thank you for sharing your passion with us.

[@tekinfokraft]

I am impressed how readily you were able to even play the notes at speed. The difference in length and position of the finger "tip" is a lot to compensate for that quickly. That being said, your skills and technique have been developed with nails and are exquisitely refined. And I agree you have many more tonal and expressive options with them. However, with no nails the tone is warm and clear, though perhaps not as wide a range. Thanks for this demonstration.

[@seymourtompkins]

It's always a trade off between warmth vs clarity (and volume). Even our preference for spruce vs cedar boils down to the same general preference.

[@hearpalhere]

For what it's worth, I think both versions sounded fantastic! Your performances really show that the guitar can be an entire orchestra in one instrument - beautiful balance between the bass and melody notes. I suspect that if you simply played for a few days/weeks with the shorter nails, you would simply adjust and compensate. Coming from a rock and blues background, it took me many years of practice to learn how to use my fingers either in full fingerstyle or in hybrid picking. Lately, I almost can't imagine playing any other way than hybrid picking. I love it and keep minimally longish nails on my picking hand (about 1-1.5mm). For my playing style this works great and is utterly practical.

[@joelhamilton6720]

Thank you ! You inspire people ! Your the Best

[@OkieSketcher1949]

I must admit that I am torn between ‘nails’ and ‘no nails’. You played beautifully! I’ll need to listen a few more times.

[@alimatooq827]

Beautiful with all the details of the idea itself as well as your beauty. .

[@ryantw19]

Not a classical player, just a beginner on steel string acoustic, but my first impression is that I like no nails better. The warmth is my favorite characteristic when I listen to classical. And professional "bad" is still inspiring!

[@jeremymozlin]

I've played without nails for as long as I've done classical, and yes, you'll definitely improve your technique if you keep at it; you'll also develop calluses that will make the tone more consistent. I wouldn't fret about it! For a great example of non-nail guitar tone, I'd check out John Schneiderman playing Coste.

[@beatrixguitar]

thanks for the recomendation!

[@obi_anyaibe]

"I wouldn't fret about it." Now that's some quality wordplay.

[@aaroncardoza5281]

Right on the money I love the feel of the strings on my fingers I have more control and you build up calluses, and the sound has much more resonance like nails. Though I haven't pick up my guitar in well over 30 years. I just started back this week. Now relearning again will be the chore.

[@ArtificialFertilizer]

Maestro Sor and maestro Tarrega did it, so can everybody. ;) I'm also a no-nails guitarist and the calluses actually can be irritating.

[@dresdelparry2346]

@@obi_anyaibe 😂 I was thinking the same thing! An unintended pun! Delightful! 😆

[@RodCooper8581]

Hi Beatrix. Thanks for an interesting demo. I think you're on the right track by taking the middle path. If my nails are too long, they can get in the way. Too short, and I don't have quite as many options with tone. But what I'm most interested in is your use of gels. I suffered from decades with fragile, brittle nails. A week wouldn't go by without at least one nail being out of action. My nails would shatter like glass or tear like brittle plastic. Having endured one tissy fit too many over a broken nail, my wife sent me to her nail lady and had them done with acrylic, covered with a layer of gel on top to add strength and avoid yellowing from the sun. The results were awesome. My nails became a reliable tool for producing a very nice, consistent tone. The only thing I didn't like was that the nails seemed too thick and tended to make a slight scraping sound when I played. I then heard about taking biotin to strengthen the nails. I put myself on two Biotin tabs a day for about 3 months before taking the gels off the finger nails but leaving the thumb with gel (the thumb's natural nail was too narrow and didn't meet with the string properly without help from the gel). I also began applying Working Hands lotion to my nails morning and night to keep them hydrated. I'm now very happy with the strength and tone of the finger nails without gels. The thinner, natural nail produces a much more refined, pure sound and gives me much more flexibility with regard to tone. I wish I'd figured this out many years ago. May your journey come to a more satisfying solution without the decades of frustration I suffered. You're obviously an excellent classical guitarist!

[@Bacchusmbt]

I love your new sound, it’s darker and fuller! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@stevogman3054]

Just found your channel. I could watch you play for hours!! Such a thing of beauty!! I’m new to classical guitar (3 yrs.), but I also play classical piano for which I’ve been playing for over 30 yrs. I’ve struggled with playing guitar because with my nails I’m not able to effectively play the piano anymore. I love both but due to the nail thing I’ve been forced to choose. After listening to you play I might have to cut my nails so I can enjoy both. I look forward to listening to all of your content!! Thank you for sharing your beautiful music!!!

[@allanrab]

I really thought the fast stuff was gonna trip you up more than it did. Great job

[@beatrixguitar]

Thanks, I was surprised too, I think the tremolo was the shitty one. But the thing is when I played I felt like it was a mess, but then I heard while I was editing and thought wait this is not that bad at all 😃 And I did like the sound too though headphones, so I guess the real life experience was more dramatic

[@user-yk6wk4cv6l]

Very informative and helped me to keep going with no nail as due to my work, I cannot grow long nails. Thanks for your help

[@Tonysmithmusic]

i’ve played classical guitar since 15, i’m now 60 and from 35 years old i also started playing piano. having nails holds me back playing piano but i love having long nails for guitar.

[@bilbowaggins3036]

Rob Mackillop plays without nails and gets a stunning tone. I've been playing without nails ever since i saw him do it, but I'm also just a hobbyist, so it isn't a big deal either way

[@joemalone3099]

I was about to mention it too..indeed Rob has some incredible tone especially on gut strings in some of his videos

[@bethl6918]

Both sound great!

[@NMGH]

Thanks for this! I started playing without nails about a year ago. What I have found is that the right hand needs to be in a slightly different position, just a little bit more under the string rather than gliding across the string that I did with nails. I find it a much more pleasant way to play since I have more contact with the string. If I recall correctly, Tarrega spent some months in perfecting his no-nails technique, so id does take time!

[@vihuelamig]

Yes, many no nail players play from under the string - including me. I mainly got the technique from Rob Mackillop and his beautiful tone. However there are no nail players who seem to obtain a fine sound from using a position more like a nail player - see Steve Watson's channel.

[@beatrixguitar]

yeah I also felt like my normal technique is not helping me here, I couldn't play as accurately as usually and I felt like I naturally rotate my hand a little bit to play from under a bit, but it wasn't too concious... I just wonder if it's possible to play really fast while picking from under

[@ArtificialFertilizer]

Fernando Sor recommended for the best tone pushing the string and then plucking it as far as I remember. ;) He even made a diagram of that. But in general the challenge with no-nails technique comes when you try tremolo - it needs a different approach than typical no-nails plucking.

[@speedycrow]

As a guitarist who also rock climbs quite a bit I have been forced into playing without good nails quite a few times 😅 it’s definitely something you can improve at and with some softer pieces I believe I sounds better without them.

[@WCGP]

This was a very interesting experiment. I started using shorter nails and on my last KZbin video, someone complimented the tone. I thought maybe it was because I used a new mic but now, I'm not so sure. At my level of ability, it was probably just lucky. I always enjoy your videos. Cheers, Will.

[@beatrixguitar]

that's very interesting! I also hear people saying how well the no nail performance sounds, shocking, hahah

[@hrburrell7587]

That sounds fantastic Beatrix. It had a much more romantic sound vs the bright tone of nails. I actually think i prefer without nails. Still sounded clean, no slop, chops are intact. I like it. Btw I play without nails, always have.

[@swordfish_0219]

superb video, liked the details and in-depth explanation and clarity of thoughts. Amazing.

[@beatrixguitar]

right? quality plink plonk

[@jasongultjaeff9397]

Nails all the way for me. I think I just prefer the note definition and precision with nails. I also think that they give the guitarist a much great range of options and control over the note. I really preferred all of the pieces with nails, especially Tarregas' Estudio in E minor and the Maria Linnemann piece. No nails come across as a bit soft and muddy to my taste, and flat, with less tonal variance. Outside of that, I can tell you are a lot more comfortable with nails. Some of this may not be just tone, but also control and playability for the guitarist. Things have evolved in guitar playing, even on the classical side and to me it seems like a lot of the no nails people are a bit more historical in their approach and the pieces they play. You play very beutifully....keep doing what you are doing with nails! (though I agree also, I'm keeping my nails a bit shorter these days as well).

[@edwardwood6127]

Ive never heard anyone play guitar like you... simply amazing

[@eduardoprieto5267]

I've been playing my classical, dreadnought and even electric guitars without long nails or pick for last 23 years. It took a couple of years to get some power and accuracy. It does open up your playing by mixing in fingerstyle. Hope everyone enjoyed their holiday.

[@paulysguitarjournal]

I tried no nails several years ago. I found that shorter nails are great, but no nails didn’t work for me either.

[@beatrixguitar]

I use a slightly shorter nails for the past few days, will see how it goes :D

[@edelcorrallira]

This reminded me of Rob MacKillop who honestly gave me the courage of leaving nails behind (opening the doors to Bass, Keys...). What he says is that it takes a while for it to sound good. He also has a series of tips regarding how to approach this (he is an authority on Lutes and an established classical guitarist who plays without nails, among other things, maybe you guys could collab and make some interesting videos? Hopefully this will be a useful reference,. Glad to have found your channel, the more I explore the more I like what I see. The world needs smart and driven artists who're willing to push beyond their zone of comfort. Hopefully this experiment will open many doors otherwise not even considered.

[@amy-jeremychilton6221]

I play without nails, but I am nowhere near your caliber. Love your tutorials

[@DorothyOzmaLover]

Ooooh, masterful demos of the tradecraft which sound so alluring and luv your informative notes about it. Bless!

[@beatrixguitar]

oh thank you, glad you like it!

[@ozwaltreacts4709]

I'm surprised everybody is choosing no nails. The nails version had a better, pretty much every tonal quality. The no nails was muted to the point of including too much low end and muddying it. It also had a frequency in it I'm not digging. This has inspired me to work on my right hand nails again. Super cool video. Thanks!

[@martinkottmeir790]

Hello Beatrix, first of all you are doing very well being an ambassador for classical guitar. Playing without nails is the only thing I can do by myself because my profession is massage and other physical therapy, so working with long nails would be impossible. Thank you for showing this possibility to us and telling us, that old masters like Sor and Tarrega did as well. Great job!

[@martinkottmeir790]

I prefer using strings serving some kind of brighter sound for a bit of compensation 😉

[@solomonraja4913]

Beautiful playing ❤

[@beatrixguitar]

Thank you very much!

[@perseus31]

I practice a lot of flamenco techniques and kinda like to play aggressive, which is where no nails failed me. But for warmer pieces its a lovely tone.

[@briancates4758]

I prefer the warmer sound of no nails playing. Also, I feel closer to my guitar when I play with flesh instead of nails.

[@Moodymongul]

Another thing to remember. All the original composers/players, that liked 'no nails', all played on gut strings (not nylon). And prefered playing in a more intimate setting (smaller rooms). That might also have something to do with it. Today, power and volume are popular

[@viangallifrancois2568]

Absolutely right. Sor used to play on a Lacote with gut strings in a lounge. Same thing as regards Tàrrega on his Torres. Playing with nails came with Segovia and nylon strings. But today, microphones and amplifiers are much better, so there is no need, according to me, to sacrifice the sound with nails to get a little bit more of acoustic volume… But that’s a personal choice.

[@ShaneKnappshutdown-r]

When using Gut strings never use nails unless you want to spend a fortune on new strings. Good gut strings are not cheep.

[@granthurlburt4062]

Beautiful!

[@CSBourne]

I came from the other direction. I 'finger picked' without nails before I attempted to play classical music. It is true to say that a warmer sound is to be had without nails, but the sacrifice of detail for warmth is a diminution of what can be achieved with them. However, a bit of enhanced bass is never to be underestimated.

[@SquirrelHybrid]

When I experimented with no nails, I had to file off the white part completely and go slightly beyond (ouch) to stop the nails from making slight contact with the strings. I prefer the tone of no nails, it's less contrasty and can make musical ideas easier to follow, but other pieces work better with more contrast.

[@beatrixguitar]

yeah I was thinking to do the same but then I felt like just for a video maybe it isn't worth it haha :D

[@krisspkriss]

I mostly play rock, jazz and country. The tone is always going to be different between nails or no nails. As far as volume though, you can get more volume from going nailess once you get used to it and get better at your dynamic control. The pads of your fingers can really bite into the strings a lot more than your nails can and you can comfortably maintain that for long sections of the piece. It is all about levers, biomechanics, and friction. Nailess is a shorter lever, which means easier to hold the same tension. With the pads of your fingertips, you can put several pounds of pressure on the string and release it with precision. I used to tear up my nails with the pops and really dynamic lines I love to play, such as anything by Mark Knopfler from Dire Straits. Sultans of Swing is a great example. In that song you can hear Mark really dig into the strings for a sharp attack in some sections that almost sounds picked with a plectrum and then the next bar he is back to a warm sound as he arpeggiates chords and then back to a high attack and even popping the strings on some chord substitutions work. While it is a different genre, that level of dynamic control and range of tone is quite admirable. He is getting four distinct tones from one guitar setup.

[@Marinus13]

No doubt.. no nails.. The tone is softer, more natural and more harmonious, these flow more smoothly into each other. With nails it sounds so hard and numb and sometimes sharp. I also played with nails in the beginning, until I started listening to Francisco Tarrega, he plays without nails, I was immediately sold. Thank you for your test and good luck.

[@jguitar23]

So lovely🎉 I began playing no nails because my nails a very thin. Continued because it sounds wonderful.

[@stevenwillett3037]

Btw, you play beautifully with and without nails. I like the strength of tone with nails, but I like the mellowness of tone with no nails equally.

[@johnburgoon8711]

I agree with what you said about enjoying the contact with the strings. There may be some compromise with the brightness (especially of chords) when playing without nails, but for me it is more than rewarded with an improved sensuality of connection to the strings. Beautifully done, thank you for this video.

[@alexmeleshenko4834]

its not just nails---its the right nail for you---each player eventually finds a nail length, nail shape that fits their technique and their physical hand and their attack. Sometimes it takes years or maybe decades---which makes classical guitar such a personal instrument with such a personal connection. Chasing that intangible beauty the classical guitar is capable of---and the shape, length and strength of the nail is it fragile or thick and strong (if you are lucky) is such a big part of the journey---I take biotin and collagen for years and it has worked my nails are as strong as steel now. But even more important than the nails is a feel for the beauty--do you have an artists soul---if you do ---you will overcome and find the potential of the guitar. The key is dont give up until you do.

[@PavelBortnik]

Congrats!

[@Turkals]

I wish I could have a chance to listen Paganini with his natural nails. I have played classical guitar almost 20 years without artificial nails. Because I didn't know what it was. Thanks for bring this topic in youtube. ❤

[@tomhrio]

when i switched to flesh-only a few years back i realized each finger has a different sound, that gives you some of the dynamics you lose lacking nails

[@beatrixguitar]

yeah I totally agree, I felt pretty much the same

[@felixthecat0371]

I dont know if you need to cut nails to notice this

[@paulmadryga]

A decade ago, I went on a choir trip to the Baltic. I knew I wasn't taking a guitar with me, so I decided to cut my nails off before we left. So there I was, sitting on my bed with the clippers in my hand... and I simply couldn't do it (I filed them down super-short instead). After 23 (now 33) years of meticulous nail care (and I've always used my natural nails), I was (and probably still am) incapable of cutting them. Not all of my students play with nails - the more accomplished ones do, but I don't get down on the ones that don't for being no-nail players. I just haven't yet been able to find it within myself to join their ranks.

[@thegnosianjournals1350]

I studied classical guitar and have been playing and performing for over 15 years. I used to play with no nail and for a few years I went back and forth but with nails is definitely my favorite. I have so much more diversity of sound tamber and dynamics. I’ve noticed many classical guitarist posting how they are going nail-less. I think it has a beautiful sound, but I don’t think everybody could pull it off. my fingers, even after a while of playing, could not get the sound, I desired or dynamics. It is a beautiful, flashy sound but my taste nails are better for me. I am very familiar with the history of guitar since I love reading about it and had to study it at University and yes, originally it was played without nail. Wonderful video. Love your work.

[@omarjassar4650]

You nailed it 😁😁😁

[@warren52nz]

I've been finger picking for over 50 years on steel and nylon strings and what I found is that the time it takes to grow nails means there's a transition period where you can't really play without nails "snagging" and also nails are easily damaged and if you damage one, then it upsets the sound from all of your other fingers so I just keep them short and always have. If the result isn't bright enough then I just turn up the treble on the PA system.

[@Stilton_Steak]

I preferred the sound without nails. This is why I gave up playing with nails years ago. It takes a while to get used to it. You almost have to learn to play again. When you have got used to it though the dynamics and control come back to your playing and then it feel natural to play without nails. Plus you get a nice warm tone.

[@thinkpad20]

Your playing is wonderful throughout, but to me the sound with nails was much better. The notes had more articulation and the tone was more even. The difference was especially apparent on the Recuerdos piece -- and by the way, your tremolo is so beautiful! Wow. I think your idea about playing with shorter nails makes a lot of sense. For me I play with all kinds of nail lengths and I've found that I can get results with anything as long as there is some amount of nail, even just a couple mm. Great stuff and I enjoy your videos :)

[@guyfawkes8873]

Being a bass player… my only option is no nails when I want to play guitar 😂 I used to have long nails before I picked up the bass for playing the guitar but well… gauge .130 stainless steel strings don’t take too kindly to nails.

[@peterracz-works9139]

I like such an honest video. Beautiful, beautiful :- )

[@gabichaibird]

i love your playing thank you

[@shashimenon1000]

I may be talking through my hat, but playing with finger trips is like listening to vinyl on a record player, whereas playing with nails sounds like music on a CD player...almost artificial. The fingertip sound feels authentic and warm. But you play beautifully, regardless. Thank you

[@Tcontinenza]

I recently found your channel and I have enjoyed it a lot. I play guitar but not classical. I am not much of a finger player however I really enjoy this experiment because I currently trying to use my hands more. I believe the sound of the short nails had more “bass tone” sound yet clear. I like it. I definitely understand why the nails are so important to classical guitar. I really enjoy watching this video. Thanks.

[@Doo_Doo_Patrol]

I play without nails most of the time because they break often, due to my job. It just doesn't work to have 3 out of 4, or 2 out of 4 nails ready to go. Then there is always the issue of explaining to people, why on of your hands has finger nails and the other does not.

[@eamonbussy6409]

Study the Segovia method. This allows for very short nails.

[@Doo_Doo_Patrol]

I have, and I don't think there is much to it. You can use them or lose them, just adapt a bit, like a cat without claws. I can't keep nails because of my work. They split and break often, so I quit trying. Not to mention, most people don't understand why one has one hand manicured and the other with nails. I get sufficient volume out of my guitar, and a nice warm tone, without them.

[@ErikVanGoch]

The few times in my life I did some serious studying as a flamenco guitarist (resulting in a short time ability to plug a string 100% to my likings with absolute precision and concistency) I always ended up with nails as short as this. During those periods of intense studying I made sure that when hooking a nail to a string no nail should be visible on the other side of the string (in other words my nails were as long as the treble e was thick) since every molecule of nail added to that would just be balast blocking the flow. At the time i actually had to file my nails on a daily base in order not to get stuck into the string because the overnight grow would corrupt my extremely relaxed, zero tention plugging strategy. If this also works for classical guitar (with a different plugging and sound stratagy) is up to others.

[@vincentmaloney5835]

I got enrolled in the Piano Class for the beginners at our local community college. I left the nails on my right hand because I play classical guitar. Now I know what to do. I'll cut the nails and play comfortably both,- piano and classical guitar. Thank You for this video. In any case, the nails will grow again if I want them to.

[@beatrixguitar]

Hey I just started piano 2 weeks ago too and I feel your pain, it’s a hard decision. So far what I did is that I trimmed my nails to very small. Now it’s too short for guitar and too long for piano lol 😂 just kidding, well, party, but I’m trying to find a healthy middle

[@vincentmaloney5835]

@@beatrixguitar Even my piano teacher plays the piano with the nails. So do all my classmates. I really don't know how they do it. I think the nails should go. That's why I am sure You will find a healthy middle. Studying the piano means that you will deal with a lot of music theory which is nice.

[@lucasgoncalvesdefaria7121]

The attack is the main difference, nails bring a bity, midrangy attack that really picks notes apart from each other, tips let the sound blend in and flow being less intrusive. Both super cool and valid, and obviously nails will win simply cuz it's also louder (like pics are louder to fingerstyle) but it comes down to style and preference. P.s. Hey, if you still have them short great opportunity to take on samba and bossa nova guitar. Absolutely amazing bass melodies (specially with a 7 string) and definetly calls for NO NAILS.

[@rodricbushnell1319]

Hello, I'm not a classical guitarist player. I do know sounds. I understand connection. Being connected to the strings as you pointed out brings one closer to the instrument and the feel of the tones. Enjoy your journey. Have a blessed day

[@DylanGladstoneMusic]

I had nails for a few years because I’d read everywhere that “you have to” for classical guitar. Around a year ago I started learning to play the lute. The minute I read that you should keep your nails short for the lute I cut them off. I hated having long nails. I think the guitar sounds better without them. Warmer. Recently I switched to natural gut strings and the guitar has never sounded better.

[@davidguest6051]

I am now 70 yrs old. My nails have become very brittle and are forever cracking & breaking. I have been forced to play without nails. Guess what. My right hand fingertips are becoming calloused like my left hand fingers. I can't say I miss my nails. Warm tone.

[@arnottclark6959]

It's like anything you do for the first time , the more you do it , the better you get . With the nails you get the "bite " you would like , more snap if you will . Without the nails, it takes your tone in a different direction . Some on this forum suggested that without your nails you got a warmer sound . Now it's down to the sound preference, but you would have to become proficient without nails to truly find that out . That took a lot of courage to try that ! I applaud your decision to try without the nails !

[@BobLHedd]

The difference in your comfort was more noticeable than the difference in sound. I play blues on steel string, but I play a lot of finger style and I prefer flesh and no nail to all nail. The sweet spot for me is when I cut both hands short, then a few days later cut the left but not the right. Just a tiny bit of nail.

[@user-jb3zo4bl4h]

Hello Beatrix, thanks for this fascinating video and for all your hard work. I actually really liked your no nail performances. Maybe my imagination but I felt that your tone was warmer and more intimate. Anyway you sound fantastic with or without nails. Thanks again for your inspiring videos. Best wishes, David.

[@beatrixguitar]

Thank you David, good to hear how many people likes the no nail tone!

[@dresdelparry2346]

Totally agree! 😊

[@ernestfowler2418]

As a six and twelve string guitarist I found fingertip playing sounded best. If I needed the sharper sound quality of playing with fingernails I used fingertip picks and practiced to become comfortable with them. As for this time on your guitar, play more and you'll become comfy playing w/o nails.

[@0num4]

As you've stated, many composers and guitarists over time have chosen nails vs. fingertips. Tarrega even changed this at different points, so he was not fully one way or the other throughout his life. I personally prefer the warmer tones of fingertips over nails. This provides a slightly less sharp attack on the notes, though you can compensate for this a little by plucking slightly harder--it'll never sound exactly the same. But some songs and styles just lend themselves to nails (or banjo-style picks for that matter), since the attack is sharper and the notes end up brighter. Just keep in mind that you'll have to develop calluses on your fingertips on both hands if you opt for no-nails. Obviously this will take a bit of time to adjust, as well as the minor mechanical adjustments of your hand/finger placement.

[@hougrel9514]

I have never played with nails but only an amateur. The end of your fingers will be tender and if you played for an hour they will be sore. My left hand finger tips have lost their finger prints from years of playing (77). My right hand finger tips have more skin on them as they adjust to the wear of playing (just like manual labourers get tough hands generally). One you have developed that robustness then you will be able to put more pressure or less pressure and do adjust the tone. I file my nails down and stop when the file has reached the finger tip, so the nail support the end of the finger but does not catch on the strings. I am only an amateur but in the 90s in the UK that's what my teacher advised. Hope that helps. Best wishes to you. There is never a best way of doing anything and we can choose what suits us and be aware of feedback from those we respect xxx

[@NEO_Trojanmuldrop4]

I’m trying to wife it up. Let’s go. We can just idk say I need guitar lessons. K? Even though I mean…. Actually yeah, you can teach me music theory, so that way I can finally complete my mental construct of the guitar, and then see the instrument with out blockages: so it’s a win win. Come Thru ❤

[@phrytsak1]

I haven't watched the video yet (working now, keeping it in an open tab), but I came here to say I've just listened to your album - it's very fine

[@FretsOnFire]

Hi Beatrix! I'm not primarily a classical guitarist, I've played for a very long time, over 50 years and play different styles. I have no training in classical guitar, but I have tried to imitate legit classical guitarists who's work I enjoy (like you!), and try to make my technique as correct as possible when attempting pieces. Unfortunately for me, I prefer the sound of nails - unfortunate because I have very weak and brittle nails that hook over. I have to keep them just barely long enough so I can pick with them, or they start to hook too much. I inherited those from my mom's side, I wish I had got that particular trait from my dad's side, they all had very straight and strong nails. Anyway, some years ago I tried fake nails and my "technique" was instantly 4X better! I had a gig coming up for which I had written a pseudo flamenco/Spanish piece, due to a Spanish theme for the gig. I had written a rather long section with constant tremolo, I got the nails put on briefly before the gig and I was able to play so much better than I had before the nails, I was also able to have them much longer than my real nails. But due to the poor quality of the real nails, the adhesive destroyed them completely and the artificial nails started to come away from my fingers, so I had to take them off and grow my real nails back. I often have to play without nails when one breaks or I have to cut them, so I definitely know that I like nails better for nylon. And the fake nails were so smooth, it was like having smooth, thick, longer pics on my thumb and fingers. I wish my nails could stand up to the adhesive and I could get them again! I saw one invention being sold, nails that fit over your fingertips, I'd be interested in trying those. The main criteria for me would be if they felt fairly natural and not like something I was wearing. I also play bass sometimes and don't like nails at all for bass, so it would be convenient to be able to put the nails on and off!

[@JohnMoseley]

I haven't finished watching or even got to the playing without nails, but I'm glad I watched just for the music. So beautiful. Thank you. AND AT THE END: unlike most commenters here, I agree with you: better with nails. But it's great you tried the other way and probably the middle way you plan to try will be the solution.

[@moonasha]

I play without nails, and enjoy the soft sound very much. I personally think nails sound a bit harsh. Fernando Sor said as much, and even Tarrega played without nails later in life. There's a guy on youtube called Rob MacKillop who I'd call the authority on modern no nails technique. Nailless requires an entirely different technique of plucking, you almost have to curl your fingers under the strings and pull them up. Sor showed a diagram where you push the strings down and kind of pull them to the side, basically another way to achieve the same thing. Also Rob tunes his guitar down an entire step, 392hz I believe, to make it easier to play without nails. Low tension strings are probably a plus too. I current play a whole step down, and honestly prefer the sound of it. Rob said that a lot of nail players will try no nails, but not change their technique, and end up disliking it

[@sidanx7887]

I like the warmth of the no nails tone

[@scadstersworld5634]

You play nicely. I have owned some classical guitars, but mostly have played steel string acoustic. But I really like playing on a classical because they sound so mellow and warm.

[@jimidharma]

Tremolos and picados are no contest. I play rock guitar most of the year, and classical during the Ren faire season. I've tried both ways and I can't do a tremolo to save my life without a little bit of nail. Therefore I grow them out as much as I can get away with during that season.

[@benjaminscoville4157]

You are very courageous, performing such an experiment. I always feel sad when I break a nail and have to patiently let it grow back; until it gets as long as the others, the tones are not the same. I enjoyed your comments about the differences, and your conclusion to keep the nails, but maybe have them not quite so long,

[@timrushworth8276]

Hi Beatrix, thanks for sharing this. As a male player who has always struggled to grow long nails, due to weak and flatter nails, this is very interesting. Your sound with less nail, was lovely and I preferred it over the “all nail” sound. For me, the best result is produced by some flesh and finished with a smooth nail edge, however short. By the look of it, you nails were still in contact with the strings at the end of the stroke. It will be interesting to hear update.

[@tesla-spectre]

funny: when I started playing classical guitar in the eighties because I hated to have long nails, it was totally frowned upon. i stayed with it and so now fashion has caught up with me 😂

[@musik102]

50yrs(?) years ago, I friend of mine, went to a Emilio Pujol summer school in Spain, and was very impressed with the "nailless" sound that Emilio achieved.

[@newsongguitarcollaboration4614]

I have nails, fake ones. I keep them short. I like muted organics of no nails. It really is the feeling and the hearing of the sound. I play with groups, nails help your projection. You did very well. Thanks for the video. Blessings.