Something a bit different this month. For all you singer/accompanists out there! 

I recently acquired a Dunlop D64 iPhone/iPod holder which can either be attached to your guitar top or to a table stand with the help of a rather powerful suction base and all of which comes with the package. I say iPhone/iPod but in fact I guess it will work with most similarly sized smart phones - my HTC Desire is a perfect fit.

Now I'm not suggesting you go and fit one of these things to your newly acquired custom-made classical guitar which cost you 000's of whatever you pay in, but for most regular guitars with factory finishes and/or a scratchplate it should be fine. 

First thing I noticed when I opened the mailbox was how well packaged and made the product is - and it works just like it says it does in the instructions. My only gripe might be that if you attach it to your scratchplate the hinged arms do not allow you to locate the phone far enough away from your right hand (for right-handed ...

Recently a pupil told me he was having back problems which he put down to the traditional footstool. I think this can particularly be an issue with newcomers to classical guitar playing when, coupled with other technical considerations, tension can easily be introduced which can make the whole playing experience uncomfortable.

Fortunately there are alternatives to footstools which allow the instrument to be played with both feet on the floor, as it were, thereby setting up a more natural seating position which should eliminate much of the tension created when using a footstool. Almost all of them attach to the side of the guitar with suction cups and straddle the left leg (for right-handed players), maintaining a correct holding position.

Probably the most popular model is the Ergoplay Gitano Professional model support but there are variations available including the Tappert and the more adjustable Troster models.

(to see an Ergoplay support in use visit: http://youtu.be/MVfFhcfnJec 
Read more