A Comprehensive Guide to Traditional Country Autoharp Picking Styles

Complete Book of Traditional & Country Autoharp Picking Style

by Javier Marcó

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	58488 KB
Print length	:	153 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The autoharp, a stringed instrument with a rich history in American folk music, has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of traditional country music. Its distinctive sound, characterized by a combination of strumming and plucked chords, has captivated audiences for generations.

Over the years, various picking styles have emerged within the traditional country autoharp tradition, each with its own unique characteristics and nuances. These styles have been passed down through generations of musicians, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of American folk music.

The Carter Family

The Carter Family, a legendary trio from Virginia, played a pivotal role in popularizing the autoharp in country music. Their distinctive picking style, characterized by a steady, rhythmic strumming pattern, laid the foundation for many traditional country autoharp players.

The Carter Family's strumming technique involved using a thumbpick on the right hand to strike the strings in a downward motion while muting the strings with the palm of the hand. This technique produced a clear, driving sound that became synonymous with their music.

Maybelle Carter

Maybelle Carter, the matriarch of the Carter Family, was renowned for her intricate fingerpicking style on the autoharp. Her innovative techniques, which incorporated elements of guitar and banjo playing, revolutionized the instrument's capabilities.

Carter's fingerpicking style involved using a thumbpick and two fingerpicks to pluck individual strings, creating complex and melodic runs. Her unique approach opened up new possibilities for the autoharp, inspiring countless musicians to explore its full potential.

Other Notable Picking Styles

In addition to the Carter Family and Maybelle Carter, numerous other musicians have contributed to the development of traditional country autoharp picking styles. Some of these notable players include:

• Frank Proffitt: A renowned autoharp player from North Carolina, Proffitt was known for his virtuoso fingerpicking skills and his unique tuning style.
• Jean Ritchie: A singer-songwriter from Kentucky, Ritchie was a master of traditional Appalachian folk music, including autoharp playing. Her intricate fingerpicking style and haunting melodies captivated audiences worldwide.
• Kilby Snow: A legendary autoharp player from Virginia, Snow was known for his innovative playing techniques and his contributions to the instrument's popularity during the 1960s folk revival.

Technical Aspects of Country Autoharp Picking

Mastering traditional country autoharp picking styles requires a combination of technical proficiency and musical understanding. Some of the key technical aspects to consider include:

• Hand Position: The position of your hands on the autoharp affects the tone and clarity of your playing. Proper hand position involves holding the instrument comfortably, with your left hand fretting the strings and your right hand strumming or fingerpicking.
• Pick Selection: Choosing the right picks can enhance your playing experience. Thumbpicks and fingerpicks come in various shapes and sizes, and experimenting with different options can help you find the ones that best suit your playing style.
• Strumming Patterns: Strumming patterns are the rhythmic foundation of autoharp playing. Traditional country strumming patterns often involve a steady downward motion with alternating muted strings.
• Fingerpicking Patterns: Fingerpicking patterns involve using your thumb and fingers to pluck individual strings, creating melodies and harmonies. These patterns can be intricate and challenging to master, but they offer a wide range of expressive possibilities.
• Tuning: The autoharp's tuning plays a significant role in shaping the sound of your playing. Traditional country tunings include the standard C6 tuning and the G and D minor tunings.

Learning Traditional Country Autoharp Picking Styles

Learning traditional country autoharp picking styles requires patience, practice, and a willingness to immerse yourself in the musical tradition. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Find a Teacher or Mentor: If possible, find an experienced autoharp player who can guide you and provide personalized instruction.
• Study Recordings: Listen to recordings of traditional country autoharp players to observe their techniques and pick up on the nuances of the style.
• Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is essential for developing proficiency in any musical instrument. Set aside time each day to practice your picking styles.
• Attend Workshops and Classes: Workshops and classes offer a structured environment to learn from experienced players and connect with other autoharp enthusiasts.
• Immerse Yourself in the Tradition: Attend concerts and festivals featuring traditional country autoharp players. Surround yourself with the music to absorb the nuances and feel of the style.

Traditional country autoharp picking styles represent a vibrant and enduring legacy in American folk music. From the steady strumming of the Carter Family to the intricate fingerpicking of Maybelle Carter, these styles have shaped the sound of generations of musicians. By understanding the technical aspects and historical context of these styles, aspiring autoharp players can embark on a rewarding musical journey and contribute to the preservation of this rich musical tradition.

Complete Book of Traditional & Country Autoharp Picking Style

by Javier Marcó

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	58488 KB
Print length	:	153 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE