guitarist
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ɡɪtˈɑːrɪst/
US
- /ˌɡɪˈtɑrɪst/
Description
- Guitar player
- Person who plays a guitar
- Band member on guitar
A guitarist is a person who plays the guitar. You might see one playing chords in a pop song, picking out a tune in a folk group, or performing a solo on stage. The word can describe a professional musician, a member of a band, or someone who plays at home for fun. In many cases, it suggests that the guitar is the person's main instrument, but it can also be used more loosely for anyone who plays it.
The word "guitarist" refers to a person who plays the guitar. In many situations, it means someone whose main instrument is the guitar, but it can also refer to any person who plays it, whether they are highly skilled or still learning. The word is common in everyday speech and in music writing.
You may find guitarists accompanying singers, playing in bands, writing songs, teaching music, or performing alone. Some play acoustic guitar, some play electric guitar, and some focus on styles such as classical, rock, jazz, folk, or blues. In a band, a lead guitarist often plays solos and clear melodic parts, while a rhythm guitarist mainly supports the song with chords and timing.
The term is not limited to professional musicians. A person can be called a guitarist even if they only play as a hobby or are just starting out. For example, you might say, "My brother is the guitarist in a local band," or "She has been a guitarist since high school." The exact meaning depends on context, but the core idea is simple: it is someone who plays the guitar.
Examples
- 1
Band role
The band's guitarist writes most of their songs.
- 2
Tour hiring
They're looking for a guitarist for the tour next summer.
- 3
Music style
He started as a drummer, but he later became a jazz guitarist.
- 4
Rock band
She became famous as the lead guitarist in a rock band.
Phrase
lead guitarist
the main guitarist in a band
- 5
Skill level
Some of the best guitarists make difficult music sound easy.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- guitaristnoun
Forms
- guitaristspluralnoun