Blues Instruments

Blues instruments are not necessarily the most expensive, or well built guitars, the grandest pianos, or the shiniest harmonicas. In fact, some of the most influential blues guitarists played old battered guitars, and some even started out by playing a string nailed to a wall and played with a bottle or a knife to create a "slide guitar" style of sound.

Guitars

The popular styles of guitar used by blues players are Fender Stratocasters, Fender Telecasters, Gibson Les Pauls, National Resonators. If resources won't stretch to anything like one of these popular models, then any of the budget models by Squire or Epiphone, or a battered second-hand shop guitar can be an authentic blues guitar. Unlike some styles of guitar such as rock or jazz, the type of guitar isn't really that important. The blues can be played on any type of guitar, and a more expensive guitar won't necessarily provide a better sound.

Harmonicas

There are many beginners guides and "starter kits" which are ideal for learning to play blues harmonica. These are very affordable in comparison to an electric guitar and amplifier. Paul Jones, of the Blues Band, and Radio 2's Blues Show uses Hohner Harmonicas which can be purchased from music shops.

Pianos

Any piano can be used to play the blues, and like guitars, sometimes the most authentic blues sounds come from the oldest and least expensive instruments. The blues can be played on a Steinway just as easily as they can on an old upright piano.

My guitars

My amplifiers

My effects pedals