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Guzheng Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

Guzheng Facts

Guzheng Facts

The guzheng or Gu Zheng is a Chinese string instrument. Sometimes the name is shortened to zheng. No matter what you call it, the large, slender instrument functions as a plucked zither with 18 or more strings and movable bridges.

According to musicologists, the guzheng was inspired by early bamboo tube zithers. Today’s guzheng is quite different from the instruments made centuries ago. Modern players use picks–called DaiMao–which are often made from hawksbill turtle shells. Ancient picks were carved from ivory or tortoise shells.

Western musical styles have inspired a more modern playing technique where the left hand is used to provide harmony and bass notes. This allows for greater flexibility in the instrument’s musical range, but tends to limit subtle ornamentations provided by the left hand in more traditional music. Students at the Beijing Conservatory are required to learn a repertoire of both traditional and modern pieces.

Here are a few more interesting guzheng facts. Centuries ago the strings were made from silk. Today they’re nearly always metal-nylon, which increases the instrument’s capabilities, volume, and timbre. The strings are capable of creating graceful sounds that mimic a cascading waterfall, or stronger sounds like thunder and trotting horses.

Guzheng Music

Indeed, well known pieces for the guzheng suggest a connection to nature. For example, Yu Zhou Chang Wan (Songs of Fishing Boats at Dusk), Gao Shan Liu Shui (High Mountains Flowing Water), and Han Gong Qiu Yue (Autumn Moon Over the Han Palace).

More Guzheng Facts

Fun Fact
A person who performs on this string instrument is called a guzhengist or Chinese harpist.

Notable guzhengists include Bei Bei He, Shirley Wang, Melody Yan, and Wang Zhongshan.

Chinese Girl Playing Guzheng

Hand Painted Oil Painting on Canvas

Hand Painted Beautiful Young Chinese Girl Playing Guzheng (Zither)Hand Painted Beautiful Young Chinese Girl Playing Guzheng (Zither)Hand Painted Beautiful Young Chinese Girl Playing Guzheng (Zither)

Listen to the Guzheng

Performed by Wang Zhongshan

The musical piece is called “Fishermen’s Song at Eventide.”

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve created more than 2,000 products for string instrument players and music lovers. Find a unique gift for your favorite guzheng player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Guzheng collection.

Music Gifts Guzheng

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Dunhuang Burmese Rosewood Guzheng with Master Signature

Product details:

  • Single-piece professional grade paulownia soundboard and backboard
  • Frame is made by Burmese rosewood with wood carving in the famous Banana Panel Night Rain design
  • Professional grade rosewood bridges
  • Accessories include guzheng picks and tape, tuning wrench, soundboard cleaning brush, soft carrying case
  • Professional Guzheng chromatic tuner
  • Two-piece matching stands
  • English and Chinese manual included
  • Dunhuang’s professional model is top seller in the market

Dunhuang 694KK Burmese Rosewood Guzheng with Master SignatureDunhuang 694KK Burmese Rosewood Guzheng with Master SignatureDunhuang 694KK Burmese Rosewood Guzheng with Master SignatureIncludes Everything You Need to Learn and Play this Beautiful Chinese String InstrumentIncludes Everything You Need to Learn and Play this Beautiful Chinese String InstrumentIncludes Everything You Need to Learn and Play this Beautiful Chinese String Instrument

Guzheng Gift Ideas

If you need to find a gift for your favorite guzheng player, you’ve come to the right place. We’re always creating new products and sharing our favorites from other designers.

Guzheng Gifts

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 Lovermusic 1-21# Steel Wire and Nylon Guzheng Strings – Chinese Zither Accessory – Pack of 21Lovermusic 1-21# Steel Wire and Nylon Guzheng Strings - Chinese Zither Accessory - Pack of 21 LANDTOM 16 Pieces (2 Sets) General Level Guzheng Finger Picks – Chinese Zither Finger Picks (Adult)LANDTOM 16 Pieces (2 Sets) General Level Guzheng Finger Picks - Chinese Zither Finger Picks (Adult) ARTIBETTER Guzheng Rosewood Musical Bridge for Chinese Zither – Replacement Parts – 21 PiecesARTIBETTER Guzheng Rosewood Musical Bridge for Chinese Zither - Replacement Parts - 21 Pieces Gazechimp 87.5cm Guzheng Bridge Position Schematic Diagram for Beginners – High-Quality PaperGazechimp 87.5cm Guzheng Bridge Position Schematic Diagram for Beginners - High-Quality Paper

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Guitar Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

Guitar Facts

Guitar Facts

The guitar is a string instrument that plays a critical role in many music genres including bluegrass, blues, country, flamenco, folk, jazz, jota, mariachi, metal, pop, punk, reggae, rock, and soul. Electric guitars, introduced in the 1930s, have had a lasting impact on popular culture.

More Guitar Facts

Fun Fact
A person who performs on this string instrument is called a guitarist.

Notable guitarists are far too numerous to name here, though Jimi Hendrix is often singled out as the greatest ever.

A Visual Compendium of Guitars

Guitar Infographic Printed on Acid-Free Cover Stock

A Visual Compendium of GuitarsA Visual Compendium of GuitarsA Visual Compendium of Guitars16x20 High-Quality Poster Print16×20 High-Quality Poster Print16x20 High-Quality Poster Print

Listen to the Guitar

Oscar Castro-Neves

Brazilian guitarist, arranger, and composer Oscar Castro-Neves plays the Antonio Carlos Jobim classic Waters of March (Águas de Março) on the Ramsey Lewis Legends of Jazz series on PBS. Born in Rio de Janeiro, Oscar is considered a founding figure in the Bossa Nova music style. He was just 16 when his song Chora Tua Tristeza became a national hit.

We Love Guitars

Looking for more guitar facts? Here are some of our favorite pages about guitars for you to enjoy:

Business Cards for Performers and Teachers
Left-Hand Chord Charts

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve created more than 2,000 products for string instrument players and music lovers. Find a unique gift for your favorite guitar player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Guitar collection.

Music Gifts Guitar

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Wood Acoustic Guitar Starter Package

Product details:

  • Acoustic guitar is all wood construction with nylon strings
  • Guitar Dimensions: 38″(L) x 16.5″(W) x 4.2″(H)
  • Sunburst color shown here (more colors available)
  • Nylon guitar carrying case with storage pocket
  • Starter kit includes guitar picks and strings, electronic tuner, capo, shoulder strap, polishing cloth
  • Right-handed guitar with accessory package is ideal for kids and beginners
  • Ready to use right out of the box!
  • Amazon #1 Best Seller

All Wood Construction Guitar Shown in Sunburst Color (More Colors Available)All Wood Construction Guitar Shown in Sunburst Color (More Colors Available)All Wood Construction Guitar Shown in Sunburst Color (More Colors Available)Package Includes Guitar Case and Accessories - Great Gift for BeginnersPackage Includes Guitar Case and Accessories – Great Gift for BeginnersPackage Includes Guitar Case and Accessories - Great Gift for Beginners

Guitar Gift Ideas

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Guitar Gifts

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 30-inch Wood Classical Guitar – Case and Accessories – Great for Kids and Beginners – Wood30-inch Wood Classical Guitar - Case and Accessories - Great for Kids and Beginners - Wood D’Addario Guitar Strings – Acoustic Guitar Strings – 80/20 Bronze – For 6 String Guitar – Light String GaugeD'Addario Guitar Strings - Acoustic Guitar Strings - 80/20 Bronze - For 6 String Guitar - Light String Gauge D’Addario Celluloid Guitar Picks – 25 Pack – Guitar Picks for Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Bass GuitarD'Addario Celluloid Guitar Picks - 25 Pack - Guitar Picks for Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Bass Guitar Ernie Ball Regular Slinky Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings – 10-46 Gauge – Made in CaliforniaErnie Ball Regular Slinky Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings - 10-46 Gauge - Made in California

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Dulcimer Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

Dulcimer Facts

Dulcimer Facts

The dulcimer is a musical string instrument in the zither family. Unlike the zither, the dulcimer is typically characterized by three or four strings. There are several common styles, though the Appalachian and mountain styles are considered the most popular.

Here’s one of our favorite dulcimer facts. Over the years, the dulcimer has acquired a number of nicknames including “harmonium,” “hog fiddle,” “music box,” “harmony box,” and “mountain zither.”

The dulcimer first appeared in the early 19th century among Scotch-Irish immigrant communities in the Appalachian Mountains of the United States. Historians speculate that early settlers were unable to craft the more complex, dramatically curved violin. This was due to a lack of tools and time. Once dulcimers were mass-produced, design changes resulted in an instrument that was easier to build and play. The body was made larger, and geared tuners replaced traditional wooden pegs, making tuning easier and more reliable.

With just three or four strings and a simple diatonic fret pattern, the Appalachian dulcimer is considered one of the easiest string instruments to learn. It’s a wonderful introduction to the world of stringed instruments, and an excellent choice for folk song accompaniment.

More Dulcimer Facts

Fun Fact
A person who performs on this string instrument is called a dulcimerist. However, this term is rarely used. Most artists refer to themselves as dulcimer players.

Does the instrument look familiar to you? Songstress Joni Mitchell played one on her 1971 album “Blue” and is credited with popularizing the instrument outside of United States folk music circles. Her live performances sometimes include an entire set devoted to the instrument.

Other big-name musicians have also been known to play the instrument. Brian Jones of The Rolling Stones featured an Appalachian dulcimer on the songs “Lady Jane” and “I Am Waiting.” Pop star Cyndi Lauper also played one on her songs “A Night to Remember” and “Sisters of Avalon.”

Play the Mountain Dulcimer

by Michael Alan Wood

A Dulcimer Hymn Collection: Traditional Hymns and Spirituals for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A TuningA Dulcimer Hymn Collection: Traditional Hymns and Spirituals for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A TuningA Dulcimer Hymn Collection: Traditional Hymns and Spirituals for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A TuningDulcimer on the Backroads: Old Time and Celtic Tunes for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A TuningDulcimer on the Backroads: Old Time and Celtic Tunes for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A TuningDulcimer on the Backroads: Old Time and Celtic Tunes for Mountain Dulcimer in D-A-A Tuning

Listen to the Dulcimer

Performed by Stephen Seifert

Nashville-based musician Stephen Seifert plays “Whiskey Before Breakfast” on a mountain dulcimer. If you’d like to learn to play, Stephen has a series of videos that you can find on his Dulcimer School website. He is widely recognized as one of the most versatile and talented contemporary players, and is a frequent performer at American folk music festivals. Stephen has also performed with a number of classical symphonies throughout the United States.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve created more than 2,000 products for string instrument players and music lovers. Find a unique gift for your favorite dulcimer player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Dulcimer collection.

Music Gifts Dulcimer

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Applecreek Dulcimer Deluxe Pack

Product details:

  • Handcrafted in Europe using the finest material
  • Applecreek Dulcimer is the best student model you will find
  • Durable nylon dulcimer case with accessory pocket, handle and shoulder strap to carry like suitcase or backpack
  • Dulcimer Instruction Book with 19 all-time favorite songs
  • One of the most popular and easiest musical instruments to play

Applecreek Dulcimer, Known as the Appalachian or Mountain DulcimerApplecreek Dulcimer, Known as the Appalachian or Mountain DulcimerApplecreek Dulcimer, Known as the Appalachian or Mountain DulcimerDeluxe Pack Includes Durable Nylon Dulcimer Case with Strap, Dulcimer Music BookDeluxe Pack Includes Durable Nylon Dulcimer Case with Strap, Dulcimer Music BookDeluxe Pack Includes Durable Nylon Dulcimer Case with Strap, Dulcimer Music Book

Dulcimer Gift Ideas

If you need to find a gift for your favorite dulcimer player, you’ve come to the right place. We’re always creating new products and sharing our favorites from other designers.

Dulcimer Gifts

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Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This means that–at zero cost to you–we will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

 D’Addario EJ64 Set of 4 Dulcimer Strings: 3 Plain Steel, 1 Nickel-Plated Steel – Medium String GaugeD'Addario EJ64 Set of 4 Dulcimer Strings: 3 Plain Steel, 1 Nickel-Plated Steel -  Medium String Gauge String Swing Dulcimer Hanger Wall Mount Holder CC01D-C Solid Cherry Hardwood Block – Easy to HangString Swing Dulcimer Hanger Wall Mount Holder CC01D-C Solid Cherry Hardwood Block - Easy to Hang Noter for the Mountain Dulcimer – Made from Solid Rosewood – Rooseback Pick IncludedNoter for the Mountain Dulcimer - Made from Solid Rosewood - Rooseback Pick Included Dulcimer Songbook: 70 Popular Songs for Dulcimer in D-A-D Tuning – By Thomas BalingerDulcimer Songbook: 70 Popular Songs for Dulcimer in D-A-D Tuning - By Thomas Balinger

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Cello Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

Cello Facts

Cello Facts

The cello is a string instrument. It is a member of the violin family, which includes double bass, viola, and violin. Cellos play a critical role in orchestral music, but are also suited to solo works.

More Cello Facts

Fun Fact
A person who performs on this string instrument is called a cellist.

Famed contemporary cellist Yo-Yo Ma plays the Davidov Stradivarius, which was made in Italy in 1712 by the most celebrated luthier of all time, Antonio Stradivari. The instrument was previously owned and played by British cellist Jacqueline du Pré. Her phenomenal career was cut short by multiple sclerosis when she was just 28 years old.

More recently, a classically trained Croatian duo, Stjepan Hauser and Luka Šulić (2Cellos) have introduced the instrument to fans of rock and pop. In 2012, the pair performed an arrangement of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” on the television show Glee.

Other notable cellists of the 20th century include “The Godfather of the Modern Cello” Pablo Casals, Beatrice Harrison, Emanuel Feuermann, Pierre Fournier, Zara Nelsova, János Starker, Paul Tortelier, Mstislav Rostropovich, and Anner Bylsma.

Easily Distracted by Cats and Cello

Canvas Poster Print

Easily Distracted by Cats and Cello Unframed Wrapped Canvas Wall PosterEasily Distracted by Cats and Cello Unframed Wrapped Canvas Wall PosterEasily Distracted by Cats and Cello Unframed Wrapped Canvas Wall PosterWaterproof, UV-Resistant, Color Fading-Resistant for more than 30 yearsWaterproof, UV-Resistant, Color Fading-Resistant for more than 30 yearsWaterproof, UV-Resistant, Color Fading-Resistant for more than 30 years

Listen to the Cello

Solo by Yo-Yo Ma

Cellist Yo-Yo Ma and trumpeter Chris Botti perform the hauntingly beautiful love theme from Cinema Paradiso. The music was written by Italian composer Ennio Morricone for the 1988 film. You’ll definitely want to keep a box of tissues handy as you watch this Italian drama written and directed by Giuseppe Tornatore.

We Love Cellos

Looking for more cello facts? Here are some of our favorite pages about cellos for you to enjoy:

Business Cards for Performers and Teachers

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve created more than 2,000 products for string instrument players and music lovers. Find a unique gift for your favorite cello player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Cello collection.

Music Gifts Cello

Find a Cello Online

Cecilio Size 4/4 (Full Size) High-Luster Varnish Cello

Product details:

  • Crack-proof spruce top with maple neck, back and sides
  • Alloy tailpiece with four integrated fine tuners
  • Padded lightweight carrying case with pockets and adjustable backpack straps
  • Brazilwood bow with unbleached genuine Mongolian horsehair
  • Rosin, bridge, cello stand, extra set of strings
  • 1 Year warranty against manufacturer’s defects
  • Please note that the bridge will not be setup before shipment to avoid damage to the cello body during transit.

Cecilio CCO-100 Student Cello, Size 4/4 (Full Size) High Luster Varnish CelloCecilio CCO-100 Student Cello, Size 4/4 (Full Size) High Luster Varnish CelloCecilio CCO-100 Student Cello, Size 4/4 (Full Size) High Luster Varnish CelloIncludes Soft Case, Instrument Stand, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Set of StringsIncludes Soft Case, Instrument Stand, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Set of StringsIncludes Soft Case, Instrument Stand, Bow, Rosin, Bridge and Extra Set of Strings

Cello Gift Ideas

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Cello Gifts

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 D’Addario J1010 Prelude Cello String Set – 3/4 Scale Length – Solid Steel Core – Medium TensionD’Addario J1010 Prelude Cello String Set - 3/4 Scale Length - Solid Steel Core - Medium Tension Original Bernardel Rosin For Violin, Viola, Cello – Medium Light Rosin Made in France – Not an Imitation!Original Bernardel Rosin For Violin, Viola, Cello - Medium Light Rosin Made in France - Not an Imitation! Fantastic Finger Guide for Cellos – Fingerboard and Fretboard Stickers for Learning All Notes – 4/4 SizeFantastic Finger Guide for Cellos - Fingerboard and Fretboard Stickers for Learning All Notes - 4/4 Size PUNK Real Rosewood Cello Endpin Rest with Non-Slip Hard Rubber Mat – Smooth Shiny FinishPUNK Real Rosewood Cello Endpin Rest with Non-Slip Hard Rubber Mat - Smooth Shiny Finish

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Bouzouki Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

Bouzouki Facts

Bouzouki Facts

The bouzouki is a string instrument in the same family as the mandolin and lute. It is a mainstay of modern Greek music and was brought to Greece by immigrants fleeing Asia Minor after the 1919-1922 war. The Irish bouzouki is based on the Greek instrument, and has been popular in traditional Irish folk music since the 1960s. It’s a simple yet beautiful instrument. The flat fronted body is often inlaid with elaborate mother-of-pearl designs.

The instrument is played with a plectrum, a small flat tool used for plucking or strumming. A plectrum is similar to a guitar pick, and is held in the player’s hand. The bouzouki’s sharp metallic sound is reminiscent of a mandolin, but pitched a bit lower. There are two main types: trichordo, with three pairs of strings (known as courses), and tetrachordo, with four pairs of strings.

Related musical string instruments include baglamas (saz), Byzantine lyra, pandura, and tambouras.

More Bouzouki Facts

Fun Fact
A person who performs on this string instrument is called a bouzoukist.

Notable bouzoukists include Andreas Karantinis, Ioannis Papaioannou, Michalis Terzis, Vasilis Tsitsanis, and Márkos Vamvakáris.

Greek Musician Playing Bouzouki

Poster Print

Greek Musician Playing Bouzouki PosterGreek Musician Playing Bouzouki Poster

Listen to the Bouzouki

Solo by Andreas Karantinis

AKTINA’s Greek Music Journey featured Greek singer Melina Aslanidou with Andreas Karantinis on the bouzouki. The concert was held at the Kaye Playhouse at Hunter College in Manhattan on June 6, 2013 in honor of AKTINA FM Radio’s 20th year anniversary.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve created more than 2,000 products for string instrument players and music lovers. Find a unique gift for your favorite bouzouki player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Bouzouki collection.

Music Gifts Bouzouki

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Gold Tone 8-String Bouzouki

Product details:

  • Originally a folk instrument from the Eastern Mediterranean (Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria) that’s usually played solo
  • Solid spruce top, rosewood fretboard, mahogany back and sides
  • Natural color, satin finish
  • Dimensions: 38.5 x 13 x 2 inches (L-W-H)
  • Brass cast tailpiece, intonated bridge
  • Includes hard shell carrying case

Gold Tone BZ-500 BouzoukiGold Tone BZ-500 BouzoukiGold Tone BZ-500 BouzoukiGold Tone Hard Shell Case IncludedGold Tone Hard Shell Case IncludedGold Tone Hard Shell Case Included

Bouzouki Gift Ideas

If you need to find a gift for your favorite bouzouki player, you’ve come to the right place. We’re always creating new products and sharing our favorites from other designers.

Bouzouki Gifts

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Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This means that–at zero cost to you–we will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

 D’Addario J97 Greek Bouzouki Set of 8 Nickleplated Steel Wound Strings – Medium String GaugeD'Addario J97 Greek Bouzouki Set of 8 Nickleplated Steel Wound Strings - Medium String Gauge D’Addario EJ81 Irish Bouzouki Set of 8 Phosphor Bronze Strings – Medium String GaugeD'Addario EJ81 Irish Bouzouki Set of 8 Phosphor Bronze Strings - Medium String Gauge Crossrock ABS Molded Greek Bouzouki Black Hard Shell Case – Fits Most Regular Greek BouzoukisCrossrock ABS Molded Greek Bouzouki Black Hard Shell Case - Fits Most Regular Greek Bouzoukis Handike Bouzouki Stand KOS-205 – Sturdy Wooden Support for Bouzouki Musical String InstrumentHandike Bouzouki Stand KOS-205  - Sturdy Wooden Support for Bouzouki Musical String Instrument

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Bass Guitar Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

Bass Guitar Facts

Bass Guitar Facts

The bass guitar is a string instrument that establishes the beat for many styles of music. Blues, country, funk, fusion, gospel, jazz, Latin, metal, pop, punk rock, reggae, and rock all feature the beat of the bass guitar. The popular string instrument is known by many names including bass, electric bass, and electric bass guitar.

More Bass Guitar Facts

Fun Fact
A person who performs on this string instrument is called a bassist.

Notable bassists include Sheryl Crow, Maurice Gibb (Bee Gees), Sammy Hagar, Julian Lennon, Paul McCartney (The Beatles, Wings), John Patitucci (Chick Corea), Prince, Kenny Rogers (Kenny Rogers and The First Edition), Gene Simmons (Kiss), Esperanza Spalding, Peter Tork (The Monkees), Eddie Van Halen, Wolfgang Van Halen, Sid Vicious (Sex Pistols), and Stevie Wonder.

Essential Bass Theory Chart

High-Quality Paper Poster – Protective Tube

Essential Bass Theory Chart 24x36 PosterEssential Bass Theory Chart 24×36 PosterEssential Bass Theory Chart 24x36 Poster18 Arpeggio Diagrams - Major and Minor18 Arpeggio Diagrams – Major and Minor18 Arpeggio Diagrams - Major and Minor

Listen to the Bass Guitar

Chick Corea Elektric Band

John Patitucci, Frank Gambale, and Dave Weckl perform solos with the Chick Corea Elektric Band at the Blue Note in New York City on November 25, 2011. The piece is called “Got a Match?”

We Love Bass Guitars

Looking for more bass guitar facts? Here are some of our favorite pages about bass guitars for you to enjoy:

Business Cards for Performers and Teachers
Left-Hand Chord Charts

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve created more than 2,000 products for string instrument players and music lovers. Find a unique gift for your favorite bass guitar player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Bass Guitar collection.

Music Gifts Bass Guitar

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Polar Aurora Electric Bass Guitar Package

Product details:

  • Full-scale 39-inch laminated and solid wood electric guitar
  • Durable bass guitar is designed to be stylish, affordable, and of good quality
  • Instrument is lightweight and easy to carry
  • Fixed bridge for rock-solid tuning stability, precise intonation, and increased sustain
  • Smooth tone is ideal for playing rock music and the blues
  • Accessories bundle includes gig bag, shoulder strap, guitar pick, and amp cord
  • Durable guitar can withstand years of wear and tear
  • Combo is perfect for beginners and would make a great gift

Polar Aurora Full Size 4 Strings Blue and White Electric Bass GuitarPolar Aurora Full Size 4 Strings Blue and White Electric Bass GuitarPolar Aurora Full Size 4 Strings Blue and White Electric Bass GuitarIncludes All Accessories You Need to Start Playing the Bass Guitar Right AwayIncludes All Accessories You Need to Start Playing the Bass Guitar Right AwayIncludes All Accessories You Need to Start Playing the Bass Guitar Right Away

Bass Guitar Gift Ideas

If you need to find a gift for your favorite bass guitar player, you’ve come to the right place. We’re always creating new products and sharing our favorites from other designers.

Bass Guitar Gifts

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Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This means that–at zero cost to you–we will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

 Music Theory for the Bass Player: A Comprehensive and Hands-on Guide to Playing with More Confidence and FreedomMusic Theory for the Bass Player: A Comprehensive and Hands-on Guide to Playing with More Confidence and Freedom Ernie Ball Regular Slinky Nickel Wound Bass Guitar Strings, 50-105 Gauge (P02832) – Made in CaliforniaErnie Ball Regular Slinky Nickel Wound Bass Guitar Strings, 50-105 Gauge (P02832) - Made in California GLEAM Guitar Stand – Adjustable Fit Electric, Classical Guitars and Bass, Accessories, Folding Stand (CG-4)GLEAM Guitar Stand - Adjustable Fit Electric, Classical Guitars and Bass, Accessories, Folding Stand (CG-4) Bass Scales Chart 16 x 24 Poster for Beginners – Master Bass Guitar Fretboard Notes, Bass Scales and ModesBass Scales Chart 16 x 24 Poster for Beginners - Master Bass Guitar Fretboard Notes, Bass Scales and Modes

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Autoharp Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

Autoharp Facts

Autoharp Facts

Here’s one of the most interesting autoharp facts. Despite the name, an autoharp isn’t a harp at all. It’s actually a chorded zither.

How does it work? A series of chord bars are attached to dampers. When the chord bars are depressed during play, strings are muted to form the desired chord. Modern autoharps usually have 36 or 37 strings. Some have as many as 47 strings, and a rare 48-string model also exists.

In the United States, the autoharp often provides rhythm in bluegrass and country music. However, skilled chromatic players can perform a range of melodies on the instrument.

More Autoharp Facts

Fun Fact
Did you know … a person who performs on this string instrument is called an autoharpist.

Notable autoharpists include Neriah McCubbins “Mr. Cub” Benfield and his son Kenneth Benfield, Bryan Bowers, Basia Bulat, Billy Corgan (The Smashing Pumpkins), Sheryl Crow, Brian Jones (The Rolling Stones), Janis Joplin, Linda McCartney, Dolly Parton, John Sebastian (The Lovin’ Spoonful), Kilby Snow and his son Jim Snow, Ernest V. Stoneman, and Joni Mitchell.

Mother Maybelle and the Carter Family

The autoharp was a favorite with the historic Carter Family, including Maybelle Carter, her cousin Sara Carter, and her daughters Helen Carter and June Carter Cash. The Carter Family adopted an upright style for playing that was developed by Grand Ole Opry star Cecil Null.

Maybelle Carter’s granddaughter Carlene carries on the family tradition today, performing onstage as well as on her recordings. Carlene’s 1990 song “Me and the Wildwood Rose” was dedicated to her grandmother Maybelle Carter.

Maybelle Carter

Queen of the Auto-Harp

Maybelle Carter - Wildwood Pickin'Maybelle Carter – Wildwood Pickin’Maybelle Carter - Wildwood Pickin'Maybelle Carter - Queen of the Auto-HarpMaybelle Carter – Queen of the Auto-HarpMaybelle Carter - Queen of the Auto-Harp

Listen to the Autoharp

Solo by “Mother” Maybelle Carter

The legendary Johnny Cash introduces his mother-in-law Maybelle Carter on the February 25, 1970 episode of “The Johnny Cash Show.” The musical piece is called “Black Mountain Rag.”

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve created more than 2,000 products for string instrument players and music lovers. Find a unique gift for your favorite autoharp player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Autoharp collection.

Music Gifts Autoharp

Find an Autoharp Online

Oscar Schmidt 15-Chord Autoharp

Product details:

  • 15-chord autoharp with select maple body
  • Handcrafted quality you expect from Oscar Schmidt
  • 36 alloy steel strings
  • Tobacco sunburst gloss finish
  • Rock maple pin block for strength and solid tuning
  • An extremely easy to play instrument
  • Fun for the whole family

Oscar Schmidt OS15B AutoharpOscar Schmidt OS15B AutoharpOscar Schmidt OS15B AutoharpBeginning Autoharp Instruction BookBeginning Autoharp Instruction BookBeginning Autoharp Instruction Book

Autoharp Gift Ideas

If you need to find a gift for your favorite autoharp player, you’ve come to the right place. We’re always creating new products and sharing our favorites from other designers.

Autoharp Gifts

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 Oscar Schmidt Autoharp Strings (ASA) Full Set of 36 Strings – Stainless Steel – Individually WrappedOscar Schmidt Autoharp Strings (ASA) Full Set of 36 Strings - Stainless Steel - Individually Wrapped Grover/Trophy Autoharp Tuning Wrench Lap Harp, Chord-harp L-shape Tuning Hammer Tuner WrenchGrover/Trophy Autoharp Tuning Wrench Lap Harp, Chord-harp L-shape Tuning Hammer Tuner Wrench Fully Insulated Autoharp Case Bag – High-Impact Foam Covered with Special Tuff Skin MaterialFully Insulated Autoharp Case Bag - High-Impact Foam Covered with Special Tuff Skin Material Oscar Schmidt AC449 Vintage Style Autoharp Case – Classic Stitched Brown Leatherette ExteriorOscar Schmidt AC449 Vintage Style Autoharp Case - Classic Stitched Brown Leatherette Exterior

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