|
Top : Bard Articles : Autoharp
Brobdingnagian Bards - Celtic Music and More: Bard Articles : Autoharp
Links:
Autoharp Music Tips
The Autoharp and Chromaharp (aka chorded zither) are exceptional instruments. They have a unique sound that when played slowly has an almost harp-like sound, but when played with full fervent strums, their sound is all their own. Most commonly used for Old-Timey music, you'll also hear the autoharp used in bluegrass, country, Celtic, folk, pop, rock, jazz and really just about every style under the sun, with the only limit being your imagination. It's the perfect instrument for the beginner who is new to music to the experienced professional.
Autoharp Radio
An online folk music radio station of autoharp music.
Autoharps and Autoharp Radio
I'm getting ready to sell a few of my autoharps. Yes, I said a few autoharps. I have, what eight now... I lost count. I don't really play them all you see. Pretty much I just pick one or two at a time and then play my wee heart out.
Autoharp Joins the List of Celtic Music Instruments
The autoharp isn't typically thought of as a Celtic music instrument, but there are a few folks who are trying to change the reputation.
Autoharp Home Recording Tips
I've had a few people ask how I record my autoharp. Here's the equipment I use to record my autoharp. Autoharp Legacy Review
I don't remember if I ever mentioned this CD, but AUTOHARP LEGACY is a 3-CD set featuring 55 of the most-incredible autoharp players in the world.
Autoharp Tips #47 - Stock 15 Chord Oscar Schmidt
Stock 15 Chord Oscar Schmidt autoharps are at a disadvantage! Hey out there ... if you have a 15 bar Oscar Schmidt autoharp (or for that matter a Chromaharp or similar "other make" harp ... all of which have copied the Oscar Schmidt harp with its disadvantages), you can make them much more "user-friendly" and capable of EASILY playing in MORE KEYS! by Drew Smith
Best Newbie Autoharps for your Money
Everyone has their own preference of autoharps. Mine are the economical and nice sounding autoharps by Oscar Scmidt. Here's a few cool picks as well as some Luthiers you can contact for custom autoharps.
Listen to Autoharp Radio and getting started with autoharps
In 1997, I decided to play the autoharp. The autoharp name is often confused with the dulcimer, harp, zither, and harpsichord, but the autoharp is much easier an instrument to just sit down and start playing than all of those. Heck, the toughest thing about it was tuning the instrument. And I mastered that in no time. Before I knew it, I was playing folk music with passion and a love like you wouldn't believe.
Mistaken Instrument Identity: Autoharp, Zither, Dulcimer, & Harpsichord
The autoharp is such an obscure folk instrument that it seems no one ever remembers what it is called. Since 1999 I've had people call it a dozen different things from Zither to Dulicmer, Harpsichord to Harp, or even a Hammer Dulcimer. But I'm sorry to say, it is just called the Autoharp or Chromaharp by some.
The Beginner's Guide to Purchasing an Autoharp
play an Oscar Schmidt 21 chord. I started on the 15 chord though which works just as well and probably would be fine for you.
There's nothing more frustrating than getting an autoharp that doesn't work or suit your needs, so I'd suggest a new one. Oscar Schimdt autoharps start around $250 and Chromaharps start around $190. If that's too high, then used is probably your route.
What's a Chromaharp?
So what's the big difference between Chromaharps and Autoharps? The main difference is the brand name. Chromaharp is a trademarked name from Rhythm Band, and I think, the Chromaharp has 37 instead of 36 strings. I've never really played one, so I'm not that familiar with them. But if you'd prefer a less expensive 'harp, try the Chromaharp.
| 