INTERNATIONAL GUITAR MONTH

International Guitar Month in April inspires the world to strum and pick their way through chords to sweet serenity.

Celebrated each April, is not just a tribute to the instrument itself but a homage to the rich tapestry of music and culture it weaves through our lives. From the resonant depths of classical compositions to the electrifying highs of rock and roll, the guitar has proven to be an incredibly versatile medium for artistic expression. It’s a symbol of rebellion for some, a tool for storytelling for others, and for many, a lifelong companion on a journey of personal growth and discovery. This month offers a moment to reflect on the impact this humble instrument has had on the world, shaping genres, inspiring countless artists, and bringing people together in shared appreciation and love for music.

The evolution of the guitar, from its early ancestors in the 15th century to the modern electric marvels, mirrors the evolution of music itself. Each era brought with it innovations that expanded the instrument’s capabilities, inviting musicians to explore new sounds and techniques. The development of the guitar has been a collaborative effort between craftsmen and artists, a dance between the possibilities of technology and the boundless creativity of the human spirit. International Guitar Month celebrates not only the instrument but also the countless individuals whose passion and innovation have propelled its evolution.

Throughout International Guitar Month, communities around the globe host concerts, workshops, and events aimed at fostering a deeper appreciation for the guitar. These gatherings are a testament to the instrument’s ability to connect people across diverse backgrounds. Beginners may find themselves strumming their first chords, while seasoned musicians delve into the complexities of composition or the subtleties of a new playing style. The atmosphere is electric with the shared joy of discovery and the palpable sense of belonging to a global family united by the love of guitar music.

As we celebrate, let’s also look forward to the future of guitar music. With advancements in technology and a continuously evolving musical landscape, the possibilities are endless. New genres will emerge, and with them, new ways of playing and experiencing the guitar. This month is a reminder of the guitar’s enduring legacy and a prompt to contribute to its ongoing story. Whether through picking up a guitar for the first time, attending a live concert, or simply exploring a new genre, each of us can play a part in honoring this versatile instrument’s place in our hearts and history.

Whether you play guitar or your talent is in listening, the month is wide open to ways to celebrate. Guitars bring joy whether we play them or listen to the music they produce.

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR MONTH HISTORY

In 1987, GAMA and NAMM founded International Guitar Day to promote retail guitar sales and stores around the world.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #InternationalGuitarMonth

There are several ways to play this month.  Whatever you do, make sure there is a guitar involved.  Use #InternationalGuitarMonth to share on social media.

  • Dust off the Fender and get in tune. See if those old calluses remember how to play.
  • Vynal is back. Visit the local music shop and find your favorite guitar solo.
  • Classical, electric, steel, acoustic, bass, no matter what your style of guitar is, stop by the local guitar shop.  You know you want to.
  • Get a custom guitar tattoo.
  • Write a new song.
  • Go to a concert.
  • Schedule your OWN concert.

National Couple Appreciation Month

National Couple Appreciation Month in April reminds us to keep the flames of romance alive all year long. Don’t wait for a specific holiday to keep the spark in your relationship hot.

Let’s face it; relationships take work.  Whether they are romantic ones or not, they take effort.  When two people are in the early stages of love, the excitement and the hormones make us overlook all the flaws and potential obstacles the world throws at us. Fast forward to life. When we value the people in our lives, we take the time to do the little things to let them know. 

For the significant other in our life, those little things mean so much more. This person is the one we call when we’re going to be late coming home from work. She’s the person we talk to about big decisions. He’s the person who makes your coffee in the morning.

Whether the relationship is becoming long-term or has already endured the long-haul, National Couple Appreciation Month is a time to re-dedicate the little things we do for each other. Little things go a long way to sending the message that we a loved and cared about.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Spend time with your loved one and reconnect. 

Little Things
  • Leave a love note on your mate’s car.
  • Surprise your love with coffee or tea before they wake.
  • If your sweetheart is a selfie-loving type and you’re not, give in on occasion and take a couples’ selfie.
  • Let your significant other overhear you complimenting them. It’s one thing for you to tell them directly, but to know you tell others what you think means so much more.
  • Invite your love to go on an activity he or she enjoys. It doesn’t need to be expensive. If they are always pestering you to go for a walk or to the library, they will be pleased by the gesture.
  • Learn something new together.  Explore common interests where you both might have an opportunity to learn while spending time together.

Use #NationalCoupleAppreciationMonth to share on social media.

Stress Awareness Month

Stress Awareness Month is an annual designation observed in April. Have you ever been in a situation that was a little (or a lot) overwhelming, you had deadlines approaching and a mile-long to do list, and you were just in way over your head?! Well, you’re definitely not alone. Everyone feels stressed from time to time, especially as we get older and the responsibilities really pile onto our plate. The thing about stress is, a little bit of it isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but too much of it can be detrimental to our emotional and physical health. Learning to find that healthy balance is the best way to live a productive, happy life.

A small amount of stress once in a while is a good thing, because it means you’re working hard and you care about what you’re doing. If you were never stressed, that would probably mean you’re living a lethargic lifestyle without a whole lot of work involved. However, too much stress doesn’t allow us to think straight, and is  overbearing and counterproductive. Prolonged stress even leads to real physical problems and can cause strokes, IBS, ulcers, diabetes, muscle and joint pain, miscarriages, and many more.

This month, recognize the difference between good and bad stress and try to find your happy place within the madness.

HISTORY

Stress Awareness Month is supported every year by the Stress Management Society

HOW TO OBSERVE

Use #NationalStressAwarenessMonth or #StressAwarenessMonth to post on social media. This month, we are all challenged to keep our stress levels low, and our peace levels high. Here are some great ways to keep your mind clear and de-stress if you find yourself getting too overwhelmed.

  1. Exercise. You’ve probably heard this one before, and even though it’s probably not exactly what you want to do when you’re feeling stressed (because laying on the couch and watching movies sounds more appealing), exercising gets endorphins pumping through your brain, which triggers a happy feeling. Exercise lowers your body’s stress hormones like cortisol, and releases chemicals that make you feel more at peace.
  2. Think about taking natural supplements to help you feel more at ease. Natural remedies like lemon balm, omega-3 fatty acids, ashwagandha, green tea, and essential oils are very helpful.
  3. Light a candle or turn on the oil diffusers, put on some soft, soothing music and dim the lights. Take a deep breath and count your blessings.
  4. Caffeine intake reduction can help (even though it’s tough to kick the coffee!) because caffeine tends to make us jittery, which can cause stress and anxiety.
  5. Spend time laughing with friends and family. Let yourself have a good time and get your mind off the busyness of the real world.

Jazz Playlist

Jazz has many forms and is the ultimate listening music. April is Jazz Appreciation Month, so celebrate people like Louis Armstrong, Glen Miller, The Dorsey’s, Dave Brubeck, Miles Davis, Frank Sinatra, some of the well known artists, singers and musicians.

Bunny Berigan, Herb Albert, Duke Ellington, Gene Krupa, Etta James, and countless more who contributed to the beginnings of jazz. Todays artists like Big Bad Vodoo Daddy, Norah Jones, Micheal Buble, Rod Stewart, Winton Marsalis, Diana Krall, among others, who help keep the art alive and continue to help it evolve.

Like what you hear? Check out your local community for Jazz Fests, Satchmo Summerfest, and smooth jazz brunch. Try your local radio dial or stream from an online one. Support local real artists as well, to keep it alive for future generations. Encourage exploration, and learning through churches, schools and local live musicians to keep the music playing.