Beatles, The/Yesterday

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Expert: Matt Gregersen - 3/24/2006


Question
What instruments were used in the 1969 recording of Yesterday, and who played them?

The first few bars sound like a guitar, but I'm not sure because it hits a D that is lower than the range of a standard guitar.

Were there also a cello and a couple of violas?

Thanks!
Janet


Answer
Hi, Janet, and thanks for your question.

Well, I'm going to assume you meant the 1965 recording of Yesterday, because I don't know of a 1969 recording specifically, although I do know it's the most covered song of all time.

But anyway, as for the original version goes, I believe it's just Paul on guitar with a string quartet playing in the background. The quartet was producer George Martin's idea, much to the chagrin of Paul and the other Beatles, but I think it turned out nicely in the end.

I hope I answered your question. Thanks again, and long live the Beatles.

Matt

Beatles, The

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Matt Gregersen

Expertise

I have a somewhat elaborate knowledge of the band`s music and history, from their Hamburg beginnings to their demise in 1970, as well as secondary information from the post-Beatle years.

Experience

I can answer most questions about the Beatles themselves and their albums, as well as some information about the post-Beatle years. I do NOT, however, specialize in concert dates or Beatle memoribilia (i.e. special collector's items, etc.).

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