Vibrating Strings: Physics of Stationary Waves & Oscillation Types

[PFuser1232]

I am quite aware of the Physics behind Stationary Waves and how this is responsible for the different notes we hear on a musical instrument; a guitar for instance. What I don't fully understand is the classification of the oscillations of the string. Is it a free oscillation or a forced oscillation?

 

[Khashishi]

When there is a driver present, it is a forced oscillation. After you remove the driver, it is a free oscillation. For a guitar, you only pluck the string momentarily, and afterward you let it oscillate freely, unless you manipulate the whammy bar or something.