Acoustic Tuesday Show With Tony Polecastro

Your identity becomes clear when life happens. After 5 years of YouTube, I'm leaning into a new path. If you're reading this, you're a steadfast supporter of the Acoustic Tuesday Show. I've released a weekly show focused on all things acoustic guitar for over five years. When people ask me what I do, I say I teach guitar and host a weekly show on YouTube.  Needless to say, the Acoustic Tuesday Show is a big part of my identity. To let it go is absolutely terrifying. Any change to your identity is complicated. If you've retired or changed the kind of work you do, you know what I'm talking about. But there's a reason why change happens. I'm fortunate enough to have a fantastic family that I know I want to spend more time with. Ending the Acoustic Tuesday show gives me more flexibility to focus on high-quality guitar content and spend time with my family in a way that will be more meaningful and impactful to both you and me.  Acoustic Tuesday will end, but my time on YouTube is far from over. My goal is to becom

You know what happens when a sitcom does a clip show? On today's episode of Acoustic Tuesday, we're going down memory lane. This particular memory lane is six years long, with endless bits of wisdom sprinkled all along the way. There truly is no shortage of things to learn from the Acoustic Tuesday catalog. So, what's up with all the nostalgia? There are some changes coming to the Acoustic Tuesday show. But before you go through a period of change, it's nice to take stock of where you've been and where you are right now. Reflection is a practice in gratitude. It grounds you. It makes you remember why you do things in the first place.  And when it comes to your guitar journey, reflection is most likely one of the best things you can do on a big-picture level. Because if you don't stop to smell the roses every once in a while, what are you gardening for? Think of this 6-year clip show as a reminder to reflect on your guitar journey. I've focused so much of my guitar journey on helping others achieve fun, focus,

Cut the gimmicks and tricks — it's time to sit down and LEARN. On this episode of Acoustic Tuesday, I'm unveiling the secrets to learning a new song swiftly and effectively. Grab your guitars and notebooks because you won't want to miss this one! In this episode, I'm breaking down the process into two fundamental parts to prevent you from feeling swamped or overwhelmed. Remember, understanding and mastering a song doesn't have to be a strenuous endeavor. Let's dive right into it! Part 1: Mastering the Essential Skills I'm going to walk you through breaking a song into five vital skills that are your stepping stones to mastering any tune: Technique: Breaking a song down into its essential techniques helps focus on the essentials. If you can't do what the song requires, dial it back and practice specific techniques. Licks: These are moments of flourish or melodic expression that add style and memorability to any song. Isolating these moments and solely focusing on them during a playing session can help allocate

Make sure your strings last as long as possible without giving you trouble when you're playing — be the 20%. On today's episode, we're unraveling the mysteries of guitar string changes, a crucial skill every guitarist needs in their toolkit! Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, this guide is going to be your go-to. I'll walk you through the essential tools you'll need, pinpoint the right time to change those strings, and of course, step-by-step instructions to get it done.  Busting myths is also on the agenda — I'll debunk the age-old myth that you can't take all the strings off at once. Spoiler alert: you totally can, with a few exceptions.  Plus, I'll be bringing you tales from my recent adventure at the Fretboard Summit in Chicago. Prepare to be dazzled by the incredible builders I encountered and the unforgettable experiences that made the event a highlight of my year. Don't miss out on this treasure trove of insights and stories! Big shoutout to everyone I met at the Summit and I look f

Is this one of the best set-up guitars right out of the case I've ever played? While many of you know I've often linked B&G Guitars with their electric wonders, they sent over their Caletta model for me to review, and WOW—it's an acoustic treat!  Clear projection, feather-light build, and those rich overtones that'll leave every guitar lover swooning. Today, we’re focusing on the creme de la creme, the Private Build Caletta. With a snug body size (lower bout just over 14.5 inches) and an air-dried Sitka spruce top adorned with X bracing, it's an acoustic masterpiece. The tongue on the neck block is a genius touch, easing tension and ensuring a seamless play. And, oh, the mother-of-pearl inlay - it's the kind of sparkle that'll catch every eye. Best part? With this beauty, you don’t have to dig in or get aggressive; even the softest touch brings forth a symphony. Dive in with me and discover why the Caletta is a game-changer! B&G makes incredible guitars and their latest effort is no exception. One of

Is there any tastier combination of guitars than these three Bourgeois Guitars? On this episode, we're diving deep into the mesmerizing world of Bourgeois Guitars straight from Lewiston, ME. There's a reason they're celebrated for their world-class craftsmanship, and I'm excited to unveil that magic. First up, we have the rustic and authentic Country Boy Dreadnought crafted from Mahogany—its tonal quality is going to leave you spellbound. Next, we'll be exploring the rich sounds of the Large Soundhole OMC with a Sitka spruce top; an absolute treat for any acoustic guitarist. And to cap things off, I'll be sharing my very own Custom OMSC, graced with an aged tone Italian Spruce Top. Comparing these three guitars is like juxtaposing apples, oranges, and mangoes - each is unique in its own right, yet all bring something delectable to the table. Whether you're a player, collector, or just an acoustic enthusiast, there's something in here for you. Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shr

Put the guitar down and listen up — no, seriously. Put it down in your lap and unlock a new way to approach the acoustic guitar. On this episode, we're diving into something that has affected all of us guitar players at one point or another: the dreaded guitar rut. You know, that feeling when you're stuck, unmotivated, or just unable to find creativity in your playing? Trust me, I've been there, but fear not, I've got a solution for you! In this episode, I'm going to take you on a journey into playing your guitar lap style with a slide. Now, this might seem like a peculiar solution, but it's all about gaining perspective and shifting the way you think about playing your guitar. I firmly believe this change can be a lifeline when you're stuck in a rut. Here are the five incredible benefits of playing lap style that we're going to explore together: 1. Gain New Perspective: By laying the guitar across your lap, you'll approach the instrument in a whole new way, refreshing your creativity. 2. Learn Alternate Tuni

Looking for a guitar with tons of flexibility and warmth for a resonator? On today's episode,  you'll get a full review of Beard Guitars' new Trailhead round neck model. Trust me, this one is going to take your breath away. First things first, let's talk specs. The Trailhead round neck comes with a stunning solid spruce top providing a rich and balanced tonal response that will leave you in awe. Its mahogany neck is smooth and comfortable, allowing for effortless playing. The vesper cone and spider offer some unmatched tones for a guitar of this class. Now, Beard Guitars knows that one size doesn't fit all. That's why they offer the Trailhead in a variety of options. Looking for a square neck model? They've got you covered. Fancy something a bit more unique? You can opt for various finishes. The possibilities allow any player to find the resonator that works for them. Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b  Featured on this episode... - Lessons With Marcel   - Martin

Is it possible for modern square neck resonators to sound so different, even if they're made by the same builder? After our previous journey into the world of vintage acoustic square neck guitars, I thought it would be fun to switch gears and introduce you to the modern side of my collection. Today, we're focusing on the square neck resonator guitars - specifically, the phenomenal creations of Beard Guitars. I'll be presenting six beautiful models from my personal collection, each one unique, and each one a testament to Beard Guitars' stellar craftsmanship. First, we've got the Model E, a true beauty that sings with an authentic resonator sound. Then, I'll be showing you not just one, but two different Josh Swift Models, each with its own special features and tonal quality. And to top it all off, I've got a charming Vintage R model that's sure to pique your interest. But this video is not just about these fantastic guitars in my collection—it's also an exploration and appreciation of the exceptional craftsman

Can you believe these three vintage '40s beauties cost less than $1000 in total? In this episode, I'll take you on a tour of my personal collection of vintage square neck guitars. Now these aren't your typical acoustic instruments—these guitars are specifically designed to be played on your lap. And guess what? You can often find them at a bargain price. I'll showcase three unique models that I personally own and adore. First up is the beautiful Bronson's Radio Grand, a charming piece of musical history that's got some serious personality. Next, we'll take a closer look at the Oahu Square Neck Guitar. This gem is well known for its mellow tone and vintage vibe. And last but certainly not least, I present to you the Regal square neck guitar, a model known for its robust sound and great playability. What's exciting is that these three guitars don't typically get the spotlight they deserve, and I'm here to change that. I've chosen them not just because they're in my collection (although I do get asked about them

300 episodes later and I'm still getting asked, "how do you pick out a first guitar?" Well, here goes nothing! This week, we're diving headfirst into the vast world of acoustic guitars to bring you my top 10 picks for the best first acoustic guitars for beginners. In this comprehensive guide, we'll be focusing on guitars that deliver the perfect balance between quality, tone, and price—and trust me, these guitars are some of the best the market has to offer. It can be a daunting task, picking your first guitar. You want to get the best bang for your buck, a guitar that sounds good, feels good, and will be with you as you progress through your guitar journey. Some of the shining stars on this list include the compact yet powerful Taylor GS-Mini, the incredibly valued Yamaha FG800, the always reliable Seagull S6, the pleasantly surprising Bristol BD16, and the sublime Orangewood Echo. But that's not all, we've got five more fantastic instruments for you to consider, each with its own unique qualities. No spoile

Looking for that jingly and sparkling tone that'll charm your ears without breaking the bank? Look no further than these 10 guitars. In today's episode, we'll explore the wonderful world of 12-string guitars. I truly believe you don't have to break the bank to get your hands on a quality 12-string. That's why I'm highlighting 10 starter acoustic 12-string guitars that are under $1000! That's right, I've been on a mission to find you guys the best budget-friendly 12-strings that don't skimp on quality. I'll include beauties like the  Yamaha FG820-12, which boasts a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides, which makes for a full, rich sound, as well as classics like the Guild D1212—a guitar that sings with warmth and clarity. The D1212 is a testament to Guild's legacy of crafting fantastic 12-string acoustics. Whether you're a seasoned 6-string player looking to branch out or a newbie who wants to dive straight into the deep end, I'm confident this list has the perfect guitar for you. Remember, it's not a

90% of new guitar players abandon playing within 1 year. Are you starting off on the wrong instrument? Many years ago, I found myself drawn to the sound of the electric guitar, but as time passed, I  was drawn to the warm, resonant tones of the acoustic guitar. For decades, I almost exclusively played acoustic guitar, until recently when the allure of electric guitar reignited my interest. With this newfound exploration, I have fresh insights and perspectives on where to begin your guitar journey. And guess what? I'm here to share this treasure trove of knowledge with you. So, if you're just starting out, or you're an old hand considering a new path, you've come to the right place. In this video, I delve into the 10 key differences between acoustic and electric guitars, covering everything from body styles to string gauges. It's not just about which one is better—it's about understanding the unique qualities of each and how they can influence your playing and musical growth. If you don't have time to watch th

If you need more banjo in your life, this list was hand-picked for you.  This episode is all about the brilliant banjo players that inspire countless guitar journeys, including my own—and hopefully yours! But first, a little storytime. I remember back when I was a fledgling in the world of bluegrass and folk music at the Old Town School of Folk. I stumbled upon my first bluegrass CD, an Earl Scruggs album. Let me tell you, that album shook my world and cast a profound influence on my guitar journey. It set me on a path of exploration into the rich and vibrant landscape of this bluegrass and folk. Today, I'm excited to share with you some banjo wizards, divided into three sections. First, we have "The Classics", the legends who shaped the bluegrass scene: Earl Scruggs, Sonny Osborne, and J.D. Crowe. Their work is timeless and continues to influence musicians around the world. Then, we'll delve into the realm of "Old-Time Players", featuring the likes of Rhiannon Giddens, Nora Brown, and Chris Coole. They're ke

Are you ready to banjo roll into leveling up your picking hand? On today's episode, we're journeying into the realm of banjo picking techniques and exploring how they can elevate your guitar playing. We'll start off with the basics: tuning your guitar. We'll transition your guitar from standard tuning into open G tuning. If you've never dabbled with alternate tunings before, don't worry, I'll guide you every step of the way. This particular tuning allows your guitar to take on a banjo-like resonance, which is exactly what we're aiming for. Next, we dive headfirst into banjo rolls, an essential element in the banjo player's arsenal. By incorporating these fingerpicking patterns into your guitar playing, you'll discover a whole new world of rhythm and melody that can freshen up your sound. These rolls might be tricky at first, but stick with it—I promise it's worth it! Now, onto the main event: clawhammer picking. A traditional technique, clawhammer involves a down-picking motion with the fingers, creating a pe

Get your twang on while expanding your musical horizons with these 10 all-star options for beginner banjos. We're breaking out of the six-string mold and diving into the bright, toe-tapping world of the banjo. We'll look at 10 affordable banjos that are perfect for any acoustic guitar player looking to dabble in some new sonic territories. We've split our list into two categories: resonator banjos and open back banjos. Some of you may be scratching your heads, wondering, "What's the difference, Tony?" Well, you're about to find out! Resonator banjos, like the Deering Goodtime #2 and the Recording King RK-R20, are perfect for those looking for that full-bodied, bluegrass sound. The resonator at the back of the banjo projects the sound forward, which gives these banjos a rich, powerful tone. On the other hand, open back banjos, such as the Goldtone CC-100, provide a mellower and more intimate sound. These banjos are lighter, easier to hold, and are often used in old-time music and clawhammer style playing. But

After almost 100 years, this Martin sounds better than ever, but how does it compare to other Martins? Today's show is something truly special, especially for those of you who love vintage guitars just as much as I do. We'll be exploring the world of all-mahogany, pre-1950 Martin Guitars, from the craftsmanship and the sound to why these guitars are valued by guitar geeks. We're kicking things off with a 1946 Martin 00-17, a mid-sized guitar that packs a punch. The all-mahogany build gives it a warm, mellow tone and its larger body size projects that tone beautifully. If you're all about that mid-range magic, this one is for you. Next up, we're taking a leap back in time with a 1935 Martin 0-17. This beauty features a smaller body size that contributes to a distinct, focused tone. Despite its compact size, this all-mahogany Martin has a voice that's full of character—it's perfect for those fingerpicking blues. Finally, we're going even further back to 1926 with the Martin 2-17. The smallest of the bunch, it s

What's better than 10 resonator guitarists (resonatorists?) to inspire your guitar journey? How about 18? Today's episode is for those who are passionate about resonator guitars—those distinctive instruments that have captivated artists and audiences alike with their uniquely soulful, metallic timbre. If you've ever been captivated by that robust and twangy sound, you'll love this video as we delve into the works of 18 remarkable resonator guitarists who are bound to inspire you. From well-known artists like the incredible Charlie Parr, known for his raw, authentic, and deeply emotive blues and folk music, to lesser-known yet immensely talented musicians like Sarah Rogo, who blends her compelling voice with expert slide guitar to create a truly mesmerizing experience. Resonator guitars are unlike any other. Their unique construction features spun metal cones that amplify the strings' vibrations. They produce a sound that's both powerful and vibrant, exuding a sense of nostalgia and a certain rawness that's ha

Have you ever seen such tasty sunburst, slope shoulder dreadnoughts? I'm a proud owner of two slope shoulder dreadnoughts and let me tell you, they're a real treasure in any guitarist's collection. These guitars are known for their deep, rich sounds, creating a broad audio landscape that contrasts sharply with the laser-focused sound of their square shoulder counterparts. The first star of today's show is the Santa Cruz Vintage Southerner. This guitar is a true jack of all trades. Its high-quality woods, precise craftsmanship, and the unmistakable Santa Cruz touch all blend together to produce a sound that's as rich and full as you can get. It's great for instrumentals and recording, filling the room with balanced, vibrant tones. With its responsive top and comfortable playability, it's no wonder the Vintage Southerner has earned its place in my collection. Next up, we have the Atkin J43. If you thought the Santa Cruz was versatile, wait until you get a load of this one. The Atkin J43 is a powerhouse of versa

Martin or Gibson? Boxers or briefs? Who is the most famous person I've played with? Today, we're doing an AMA (Ask Me Anything) episode where I'll be answering YOUR questions that you've been leaving in the comments on previous episodes. In this episode, we'll dive deep into my personal life—from my love for hockey, to the books I enjoy reading, and even where some past employees at Tony's Acoustic Challenge are today. You'll get an intimate look at my musical upbringing, how it has shaped who I am today, and some fun stories along the way. Submit your guitarsenal at the link below! https://airtable.com/shrpAVAi9HUGVUW8b  Featured in this episode... - Thunder Road Guitars   - Old Town School of Folk   - Fretboard Journal   - True Vintage Guitar   - Calton Cases  - Dust to Digital   - Andrea Stolpe