Instruments Similar to Guitar: A Fun and Easy Guide

November 21, 2024 All About Music
instruments similar to guitar

The guitar is like a rockstar in the world of music! Everyone loves its sound, and it fits into almost any type of music. But did you know there are many other instruments similar to guitar? Some are small, some are big, and some even come from faraway countries. Each one has its own personality and special sound.

In this blog, we’ll talk about these amazing instruments, where they come from, how they sound, and why they’re worth learning about. Whether you’re a guitarist looking for something new or just curious about music, this guide is for you!

1. What is a Guitar-Like Instrument?

Before we jump into the list, let’s answer an easy question: what makes an instrument like a guitar?

  1. Strings: Most of these instruments have strings that you pluck or strum, just like a guitar.
  2. Body Shape: Many have a body that helps amplify the sound.
  3. Playing Style: You can often use your fingers or a pick to play them.

Now, let’s explore these guitar-like instruments that bring something special to the music world!

2. Mandolin – The Tiny String Wonder

The mandolin is a small instrument that looks like a baby guitar. It has eight strings grouped into four pairs. You play it with a pick, and it makes a bright, cheerful sound.

  • Where it’s From: Italy! Mandolins have been around since the 1700s.
  • What Makes it Special: Its high-pitched sound is perfect for classical, folk, and even bluegrass music.
  • Fun Fact: The mandolin is featured in the famous song “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M.

3. Ukulele – The Hawaiian Sweetheart

The ukulele, or “uke” for short, is one of the easiest instruments to play. It’s smaller than a guitar and has only four strings, which makes it perfect for beginners.

  • Where it’s From: Hawaii, but it’s inspired by a Portuguese instrument called the machete.
  • What Makes it Special: It’s lightweight and portable, so you can take it anywhere.
  • Fun Fact: The ukulele became famous worldwide thanks to Hawaiian music in the 20th century.

4. Banjo – The King of Twan

The banjo is like a mix of a guitar and a drum! It has a round body with a stretched drumhead, giving it a unique, twangy sound.

  • Where it’s From: It has African roots but became popular in America.
  • What Makes it Special: Its bright, happy sound is perfect for country and folk music.
  • Fun Fact: Banjos are often used in bluegrass music and are great for fast, fun tunes.

5. Bouzouki – The Greek Guitar

The bouzouki looks like a long-necked guitar and has a sweet, rich sound. It’s commonly used in Greek music but can fit into other styles too.

  • Where it’s From: Greece. It’s been part of Greek culture for centuries.
  • What Makes it Special: Its deep, melodic tone.
  • Fun Fact: There are Irish bouzoukis too, which are a little different from the Greek version.

6. Lute – The Medieval Guitar

The lute is one of the oldest instruments similar to the guitar. If you’ve seen old paintings, you’ve probably spotted one! It has a pear-shaped body and lots of strings.

  • Where it’s From: Europe, but its roots go back to ancient Mesopotamia.
  • What Makes it Special: It has a warm, soft sound, perfect for classical music.
  • Fun Fact: Lutes were super popular in the Renaissance era.

7. Charango – The Armadillo Instrument

The charango is a small, cute instrument from South America. It looks like a ukulele, but it has ten strings grouped in five pairs.

  • Where it’s From: Bolivia and Peru.
  • What Makes it Special: Its sound is bright and lively. Plus, traditional ones were made from armadillo shells!
  • Fun Fact: It’s often used in Andean folk music.

8. Sitar – The Indian Masterpiece

The sitar is a magical instrument from India. It’s big, with lots of strings, and creates a mesmerizing sound.

  • Where it’s From: India, used in classical music for hundreds of years.
  • What Makes it Special: It has sympathetic strings that vibrate and add extra depth to the sound.
  • Fun Fact: George Harrison of The Beatles made the sitar famous in Western music.

9. Twelve-String Guitar – Twice the Fun

If you love the guitar but want a fuller, richer sound, the twelve-string guitar is for you. It has double the strings of a regular guitar, giving it a chime-like effect.

  • Where it’s From: Popular in folk and rock music.
  • What Makes it Special: It sounds like two guitars playing at once!
  • Fun Fact: Bands like Led Zeppelin and The Byrds have used twelve-string guitars in their songs.

10. Oud – The Middle Eastern Star

The oud is like a guitar without frets, which lets you play smooth, sliding notes. It’s a favorite in Middle Eastern and North African music.

  • Where it’s From: Ancient Mesopotamia, now popular across the Middle East.
  • What Makes it Special: Its deep, warm tones are perfect for emotional melodies.
  • Fun Fact: The oud is often called the ancestor of the lute and guitar.

11. Resonator Guitar – The Blues Machine

Resonator guitars look like regular guitars, but they have metal cones inside. These cones amplify the sound, making it louder and more metallic.

  • Where it’s From: Early 20th-century America.
  • What Makes it Special: It’s perfect for blues and slide guitar playing.
  • Fun Fact: Resonator guitars are also called Dobros.

12. Balalaika – The Triangle Instrument

The balalaika is a three-stringed instrument with a unique triangular body. It’s a big part of Russian folk music.

  • Where it’s From: Russia, created in the 17th century.
  • What Makes it Special: Its distinct shape and bright sound.
  • Fun Fact: There are different sizes of balalaikas, from tiny to huge!

Why Try Instruments Similar to Guitar?

  1. Diversity: Each instrument has its own unique sound and style.
  2. Fun: Learning something new is exciting and keeps music fresh.
  3. Creativity: These instruments can inspire you to create unique tunes.

Tips for Choosing the Right Instrument

  • Start small with easy ones like the ukulele.
  • Pick an instrument based on the music style you like.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment!

Conclusion

The world of instruments similar to guitar is full of surprises. From the tiny ukulele to the majestic sitar, each instrument has its own story and charm. Exploring these instruments can open up a whole new world of music for you.

So, grab one of these guitar-like instruments and start your musical adventure today!

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