The world of guitars is as vast as it is versatile, and among its most unique and visually striking instruments are the 18 string Acoustic harp guitar and the 20 string Acoustic harp guitar. These instruments are not just a blend of technical sophistication and artistry; they offer musicians an entirely new dimension of sound that standard guitars cannot match. From professional performers to hobbyists seeking richer tonal possibilities, harp guitars have carved a niche in the world of acoustic music.
What is a Harp Guitar?
A harp guitar is essentially a hybrid instrument, combining the features of a traditional guitar with additional “harp” strings. These extra strings are usually unfretted and resonate sympathetically, producing a fuller, harp-like sound. The main guitar section allows standard chord and melody playing, while the additional strings provide extended bass notes, overtones, or droning effects that create a lush harmonic texture.
While traditional guitars typically have 6 strings, the 18 string Acoustic harp guitar and the 20 string Acoustic harp guitar significantly expand the sonic possibilities. The added strings make it possible to play bass lines, melody, and harmony simultaneously, offering a richer and more orchestral sound without the need for additional instruments.
The 18 String Acoustic Harp Guitar
The 18 string Acoustic harp guitar generally includes six standard fretted strings, with the remaining 12 strings acting as sub-bass or sympathetic harp strings. This configuration allows guitarists to explore a wide tonal range, making it perfect for fingerstyle playing, solo compositions, or experimental music.
Features and Construction
- Tonewoods: Most 18 string harp guitars are constructed from premium tonewoods such as spruce, cedar, rosewood, and maple. The soundboard is often made of solid spruce or cedar, which offers warmth, clarity, and projection.
- Body Design: These guitars usually feature an extended body with a secondary arm or wing that supports the harp strings. Despite the extra strings, many designs are carefully engineered to maintain balance and playability.
- Neck and Fretboard: The neck is similar to standard guitars but may be slightly wider to accommodate additional strings. Some models include scalloped or extended fretboards for advanced techniques.
Sound and Musical Applications
The 18 string Acoustic harp guitar offers a unique tonal palette. Musicians can use the harp strings for:
- Sympathetic resonance to enhance chords.
- Extended bass lines for solo performances.
- Drone notes for folk, Celtic, and world music styles.
Its versatility makes it ideal for guitarists seeking an orchestral quality in their compositions, and it has been embraced by artists looking to create innovative acoustic arrangements.
The 20 String Acoustic Harp Guitar
Pushing the envelope even further, the 20 string Acoustic harp guitar includes 6 fretted strings and 14 additional harp strings. This extra extension of strings allows for even greater harmonic and melodic possibilities, making it a favorite among experimental musicians, contemporary fingerstyle guitarists, and composers.
Features and Construction
- Advanced Tonewoods: High-end models often feature spruce or cedar tops with exotic woods like koa or Indian rosewood for back and sides, providing a rich and vibrant tone across all registers.
- Ergonomics: Despite the increased number of strings, manufacturers focus on ergonomics. Lightweight construction and careful string placement allow performers to reach harp strings comfortably.
- Customization: Many 20 string models offer custom tuning options for harp strings, enabling musicians to adapt the instrument to their preferred tonalities or compositions.
Sound and Musical Applications
The 20 string Acoustic harp guitar excels in creating layers of sound. The additional strings allow:
- Polyphonic textures, where melody, harmony, and bass lines are played simultaneously.
- Extended bass range for dramatic solo performances.
- Complex fingerstyle arrangements for contemporary, jazz, or experimental music.
Musicians often use the 20-string harp guitar to reinterpret classical compositions, modern pieces, or world music, taking advantage of its full-bodied sound and expansive resonance.
Playing Techniques for Harp Guitars
Playing an 18 string Acoustic harp guitar or a 20 string Acoustic harp guitar requires some adjustment compared to a standard guitar. Key techniques include:
- Fingerstyle Mastery: Players often use fingerpicking rather than a pick to manage multiple strings and achieve smooth transitions between fretted and harp strings.
- Thumb and Finger Coordination: The extended bass strings allow the thumb to perform independent bass lines while the fingers play melody and harmony.
- Harmonic Exploration: Musicians can exploit natural harmonics on both fretted and harp strings for shimmering, ethereal effects.
- Alternate Tunings: Custom tunings on the harp strings offer endless possibilities for creating drones, modal music, or unconventional chord voicings.
Learning these techniques opens the door to a range of musical expression that traditional guitars cannot provide, making the harp guitar a versatile tool for creativity.
Choosing Between 18 String and 20 String Models
When deciding between an 18 string Acoustic harp guitar and a 20 string Acoustic harp guitar, consider the following factors:
- Skill Level: Beginners might find the 18-string model easier to manage, while advanced players often prefer the expanded range of the 20-string version.
- Musical Goals: If the goal is solo performance with rich harmonic textures, both models are suitable, but the 20-string provides greater versatility.
- Portability and Comfort: More strings usually mean a slightly larger body and heavier instrument, which could affect comfort during long playing sessions.
- Budget: Generally, more strings and premium craftsmanship increase cost. An 18-string model can be a more affordable entry point.
Popular Uses and Artists
Harp guitars have gained popularity among modern fingerstyle guitarists, folk musicians, and even contemporary classical composers. Artists like Michael Hedges, Andy McKee, and John Doan have showcased the unique capabilities of harp guitars, inspiring a new generation of musicians.
The 18 string Acoustic harp guitar is often chosen for intimate, intricate compositions, while the 20 string Acoustic harp guitar allows performers to create dramatic, full-bodied arrangements that fill a room with sound.
Care and Maintenance
Maintaining a harp guitar is similar to caring for a standard acoustic guitar, but with a few additional considerations:
- String Maintenance: Harp strings may require more frequent replacement due to tension and exposure.
- Humidity Control: These instruments are sensitive to humidity and temperature changes. Proper storage ensures longevity and stable tuning.
- Tuning Regularity: With extra strings, tuning can be more complex. Many players use clip-on tuners and develop a systematic tuning routine.
Regular care preserves the instrument’s tone, resonance, and structural integrity, ensuring years of musical enjoyment.
Conclusion
The 18 string Acoustic harp guitar and the 20 string Acoustic harp guitar represent the pinnacle of acoustic guitar innovation. They combine the familiar qualities of a standard guitar with the extended sonic range of harp strings, creating instruments capable of producing lush, multi-layered sounds. From professional musicians to passionate hobbyists, these harp guitars offer endless creative possibilities.
Choosing between an 18-string or 20-string model depends on your skill level, musical style, and performance needs. Regardless of choice, mastering a harp guitar opens up a new world of expressive potential, making it a must-explore instrument for any serious guitarist seeking to expand their sonic horizons.
Whether performing solo, composing intricate pieces, or exploring experimental sounds, the 18 string Acoustic harp guitar and the 20 string Acoustic harp guitar are instruments that inspire creativity and push the boundaries of traditional guitar music. Their unique combination of beauty, complexity, and versatility ensures that they will continue to captivate musicians and audiences for generations to come.