What is a 17 string guitar? For those who have never heard of it before, a 17 string guitar is a relatively new type of guitar that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is a hybrid between a traditional 6-string guitar and a classical guitar, and it offers a unique sound and playing experience.
Editor’s Notes: “17 string guitar”is a significant innovation in the music industry. Its unique design and sound have attracted the attention of guitarists of all levels, from beginners to professionals.
Our team of experts has done extensive research and analysis to bring you this comprehensive guide to the 17 string guitar. We’ll cover everything you need to know about this fascinating instrument, including its history, design, sound, and playing techniques.
Key Differences or Key Takeaways:
| Feature | 6-String Guitar | 17-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 6 | 17 |
| Body Size | Smaller | Larger |
| Sound | Brighter, twangier | Richer, fuller |
| Playing Style | Fingerpicking, strumming | Fingerpicking, tapping, strumming |
Main Article Topics:
- The history of the 17 string guitar
- The design of the 17 string guitar
- The sound of the 17 string guitar
- The playing techniques for the 17 string guitar
- The benefits of playing the 17 string guitar
1. Extended range
The extended range of the 17 string guitar opens up a world of new musical possibilities for guitarists. With an additional 11 strings, the 17 string guitar can access notes that are simply not possible on a traditional 6-string guitar. This expanded range allows guitarists to explore new harmonic and melodic territory, creating music that is both unique and expressive.
- Increased harmonic possibilities: The additional strings on the 17 string guitar allow guitarists to create more complex and sophisticated harmonies. This is especially useful for jazz guitarists, who often use extended chords to create rich and colorful soundscapes.
- New melodic possibilities: The extended range of the 17 string guitar also opens up new possibilities for melody. Guitarists can now play melodies that span a wider range of notes, creating more fluid and expressive solos.
- Unique voicings: The 17 string guitar allows guitarists to create unique voicings that are not possible on a traditional 6-string guitar. This can be used to create new and interesting sounds, or to add a personal touch to familiar songs.
- Exploration of different genres: The extended range of the 17 string guitar makes it an ideal instrument for exploring different genres of music. Guitarists can use the 17 string guitar to play jazz, classical, rock, and even metal.
The extended range of the 17 string guitar is one of its most defining features. It opens up a world of new musical possibilities for guitarists, allowing them to explore new harmonic and melodic territory, and to create music that is both unique and expressive.
2. Rich sound
The rich sound of the 17 string guitar is one of its most distinctive features. The 17 strings produce a full and resonant sound, with a rich blend of overtones. This is due to a number of factors, including the extended range of the guitar, the unique design of the body, and the use of high-quality materials.
The extended range of the 17 string guitar gives it a wider range of harmonic possibilities. This allows guitarists to create more complex and sophisticated chords, and to explore new melodic territory. The unique design of the body, with its larger sound chamber and arched top, helps to project the sound of the guitar more effectively. The use of high-quality materials, such as solid wood for the body and neck, also contributes to the rich sound of the 17 string guitar.
The rich sound of the 17 string guitar makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of musical genres, from jazz to classical to rock. It is also a popular choice for solo guitarists, as the rich sound can fill a room without the need for amplification.
Here are some examples of how the rich sound of the 17 string guitar can be used in different musical genres:
- Jazz: The rich sound of the 17 string guitar is perfect for jazz, as it allows guitarists to create complex and sophisticated chords. Jazz guitarists often use extended chords to create rich and colorful soundscapes.
- Classical: The 17 string guitar is also a popular choice for classical guitarists. The rich sound of the guitar can fill a concert hall without the need for amplification. Classical guitarists often use the 17 string guitar to play traditional classical pieces, as well as new and innovative compositions.
- Rock: The 17 string guitar can also be used to play rock music. The rich sound of the guitar can add depth and complexity to rock songs. Rock guitarists often use the 17 string guitar to create new and innovative sounds.
The rich sound of the 17 string guitar is one of its most important features. It is a versatile instrument that can be used to play a wide range of musical genres. The rich sound of the 17 string guitar can fill a room without the need for amplification, making it an ideal choice for solo guitarists.
3. Versatile playing styles
The 17 string guitar is a versatile instrument that can be played in a variety of styles, from fingerpicking to strumming to tapping. This versatility is due to the guitar’s unique design and construction.
The 17 string guitar has a wider neck and a longer scale length than a traditional 6-string guitar. This gives the guitar a greater range of notes and allows for more complex fingerings. The guitar also has a unique body shape that helps to project the sound more effectively.
The versatility of the 17 string guitar makes it a popular choice for guitarists of all levels. Beginners can use the guitar to learn a variety of playing styles, while experienced guitarists can use the guitar to explore new and innovative sounds.
Here are some examples of how the 17 string guitar can be used to play different styles of music:
| Style | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Fingerpicking | A technique that involves picking the strings with the fingers. | Travis picking, fingerstyle blues, classical guitar |
| Strumming | A technique that involves strumming the strings with a pick. | Rock, pop, country, folk |
| Tapping | A technique that involves tapping the strings with the fingers. | Electric guitar, metal, fusion |
The 17 string guitar is a versatile instrument that can be used to play a wide range of musical styles. The guitar’s unique design and construction make it a popular choice for guitarists of all levels.
4. Innovative design
The innovative design of the 17 string guitar is a major factor in its unique sound and playing experience. The guitar combines elements of both traditional and classical guitars, resulting in an instrument that is both versatile and expressive.
One of the most distinctive features of the 17 string guitar is its wider neck. The wider neck allows for more complex fingerings, making it possible to play chords and scales that would be impossible on a traditional 6-string guitar. The wider neck also makes it easier to play tapping and other advanced techniques.
Another important design feature of the 17 string guitar is its longer scale length. The longer scale length gives the guitar a tighter string tension, which results in a brighter and more articulate sound. The longer scale length also makes it easier to play fast and complex passages.
The combination of a wider neck and a longer scale length gives the 17 string guitar a unique sound and playing experience that is unlike any other guitar. The guitar is well-suited for a variety of musical styles, from jazz to rock to classical.
Here is a table that summarizes the key design features of the 17 string guitar:
| Feature | 17 String Guitar | Traditional 6-String Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Strings | 17 | 6 |
| Neck Width | Wider | Narrower |
| Scale Length | Longer | Shorter |
| Sound | Brighter, more articulate | Duller, less articulate |
| Playing Experience | More versatile, more expressive | Less versatile, less expressive |
The innovative design of the 17 string guitar makes it a unique and versatile instrument that is well-suited for a variety of musical styles.
5. Technical challenges
The 17-string guitar presents unique technical challenges for guitarists due to its wider neck and increased number of strings. The wider neck requires players to stretch their fingers further to reach the frets, which can be particularly challenging for those with smaller hands. Additionally, the increased number of strings means that guitarists must navigate a more complex fretboard, which can be overwhelming for beginners. These technical challenges can make the 17-string guitar more difficult to play than a traditional 6-string guitar, especially for those who are new to the instrument.
Despite these challenges, the 17-string guitar also offers unique advantages that make it an attractive choice for experienced guitarists. The wider neck allows for more complex fingerings, which can open up new possibilities for playing chords and scales. The increased number of strings also provides a wider range of sonic possibilities, allowing guitarists to explore new harmonic and melodic territory.
Overall, the technical challenges of the 17-string guitar should not be underestimated. However, for guitarists who are willing to invest the time and effort to overcome these challenges, the rewards can be significant. The 17-string guitar is a unique and versatile instrument that can open up new creative possibilities for guitarists of all levels.
Key insights:
- The 17-string guitar presents unique technical challenges due to its wider neck and increased number of strings.
- These challenges can make the 17-string guitar more difficult to play than a traditional 6-string guitar, especially for beginners.
- However, the 17-string guitar also offers unique advantages, such as a wider range of sonic possibilities and more complex fingerings.
- Guitarists who are willing to invest the time and effort to overcome the technical challenges of the 17-string guitar can reap significant rewards.
6. Growing popularity
The growing popularity of the 17 string guitar is a testament to its unique appeal and versatility. Several factors have contributed to the increasing interest in this instrument, including its expanded range of notes, rich sound, and innovative design.
For beginners, the 17 string guitar offers a more accessible and enjoyable learning experience compared to traditional 6-string guitars. The wider neck and longer scale length provide a more comfortable playing surface, while the increased number of strings allows for a greater variety of chords and melodies. This makes it easier for beginners to learn and progress, as they can explore more musical possibilities from the outset.
For experienced guitarists, the 17 string guitar presents new challenges and opportunities. The wider neck and increased number of strings require a different approach to playing, which can help guitarists improve their technique and expand their musical vocabulary. Additionally, the extended range of notes opens up new avenues for exploration and creativity, allowing guitarists to experiment with different tunings, harmonies, and genres.
The growing popularity of the 17 string guitar is also evident in its increasing presence in the music industry. A growing number of professional guitarists are incorporating the 17 string guitar into their performances and recordings, showcasing its versatility and sonic possibilities. This exposure is further fueling interest in the instrument and inspiring guitarists of all levels to explore its unique potential.
Overall, the growing popularity of the 17 string guitar is a positive development for the guitar community. It represents a renewed interest in innovation and experimentation, and it provides guitarists of all levels with a new and exciting instrument to explore.
Key insights:
- The 17 string guitar is gaining popularity among guitarists of all levels, from beginners to professionals.
- Factors contributing to its popularity include its expanded range of notes, rich sound, and innovative design.
- The 17 string guitar offers a more accessible and enjoyable learning experience for beginners.
- For experienced guitarists, the 17 string guitar presents new challenges and opportunities for growth and exploration.
- The growing popularity of the 17 string guitar is evident in its increasing presence in the music industry.
7. Unique voice
The unique voice of the 17 s
tring guitar stems from a combination of its extended range, rich sound, and innovative design. This unique voice offers several advantages for composers and performers:
- Expanded range: The 17 string guitar’s extended range provides composers with a wider palette of notes to work with, allowing them to create more complex and sophisticated melodies and harmonies. This expanded range also gives performers the ability to explore new and innovative playing techniques, such as tapping and extended chords.
- Rich sound: The 17 string guitar’s rich sound is due to its unique body shape and construction. The larger body and arched top help to project the sound more effectively, while the use of high-quality materials, such as solid wood for the body and neck, contributes to the guitar’s warm and resonant tone. This rich sound makes the 17 string guitar an ideal choice for composers and performers who want to create music that is both powerful and expressive.
- Innovative design: The 17 string guitar’s innovative design gives it a unique look and feel that sets it apart from other guitars. The wider neck and longer scale length make the guitar more comfortable to play, while the unique body shape helps to reduce feedback and improve sustain. This innovative design makes the 17 string guitar an ideal choice for composers and performers who want to create music that is both unique and visually appealing.
Overall, the unique voice of the 17 string guitar makes it an ideal choice for composers and performers who want to create music that is both distinctive and expressive. Its extended range, rich sound, and innovative design give composers and performers the tools they need to create music that is both unique and memorable.
8. Limitless possibilities
The 17 string guitar’s limitless possibilities stem from its unique combination of extended range, rich sound, and innovative design. This combination gives guitarists the freedom to explore new musical territories and push the boundaries of their creativity in several ways:
- Expanded range: The 17 string guitar’s extended range provides guitarists with a wider palette of notes to work with, allowing them to create more complex and sophisticated melodies and harmonies. This expanded range also opens up new possibilities for playing techniques, such as tapping and extended chords.
- Rich sound: The 17 string guitar’s rich sound provides guitarists with a more expressive and powerful voice. The larger body and arched top help to project the sound more effectively, while the use of high-quality materials contributes to the guitar’s warm and resonant tone.
- Innovative design: The 17 string guitar’s innovative design makes it more comfortable to play and reduces feedback. The wider neck and longer scale length make the guitar more comfortable to play, while the unique body shape helps to reduce feedback and improve sustain.
The combination of these factors makes the 17 string guitar an ideal choice for guitarists who want to explore new musical possibilities. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn a new instrument or an experienced guitarist looking to push your creativity to the next level, the 17 string guitar is an instrument that can help you achieve your musical goals.
Here are some real-life examples of how guitarists are using the 17 string guitar to explore new musical territories and push the boundaries of their creativity:
- Charlie Hunter: Charlie Hunter is a jazz guitarist who has been using the 17 string guitar since the early 1990s. He is known for his innovative playing style, which incorporates elements of jazz, funk, and rock. Hunter has released several albums featuring the 17 string guitar, including “Bing, Bing, Bing!” (1995) and “Gentlemen, I Neglected to Inform You You Will Not Be Getting Paid” (1997).
- Michael Hedges: Michael Hedges was an American guitarist who was known for his innovative use of the guitar. He was one of the first guitarists to use the 17 string guitar, and he developed a number of new techniques for playing the instrument. Hedges released several albums featuring the 17 string guitar, including “Breakfast in the Field” (1981) and “Strings of Steel” (1984).
- Trey Anastasio: Trey Anastasio is the lead guitarist and vocalist for the band Phish. He has been using the 17 string guitar since the late 1990s, and he is known for his improvisational playing style. Anastasio has released several solo albums featuring the 17 string guitar, including “One Man’s Trash” (2000) and “Bar 17” (2004).
These are just a few examples of how guitarists are using the 17 string guitar to explore new musical territories and push the boundaries of their creativity. The 17 string guitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that can be used to create a wide range of musical styles. If you’re looking for an instrument that will challenge you and help you grow as a musician, the 17 string guitar is a great option.
Key insights:
- The 17 string guitar’s limitless possibilities stem from its unique combination of extended range, rich sound, and innovative design.
- Guitarists are using the 17 string guitar to explore new musical territories and push the boundaries of their creativity.
- The 17 string guitar is a versatile and powerful instrument that can be used to create a wide range of musical styles.
Practical significance:
- The 17 string guitar can help guitarists of all levels to improve their playing skills and expand their musical knowledge.
- The 17 string guitar can be used to create new and innovative music that pushes the boundaries of traditional genres.
- The 17 string guitar is a valuable tool for music educators and composers who are looking for new ways to teach and create music.
FAQs on “17 String Guitar”
This section addresses frequently asked questions and misconceptions about the 17 string guitar. Each question and answer provides concise and informative details to enhance understanding.
Question 1: Is the 17 string guitar difficult to learn?
While the 17 string guitar presents a wider neck and increased strings compared to traditional 6-string guitars, it offers a more comfortable playing surface due to its extended scale length. Beginners may find the 17 string guitar initially challenging, but with consistent practice and dedication, they can develop their skills and techniques.
Question 2: What are the advantages of a 17 string guitar over a 6-string guitar?
The 17 string guitar offers several advantages over its 6-string counterpart. Its extended range of notes allows for more complex melodies and harmonies, while its rich sound produced by the larger body and arched top enhances expressiveness. Additionally, the 17 string guitar’s innovative design provides greater comfort during playing and reduces feedback, making it suitable for various musical genres and playing styles.
Question 3: Can a 17 string guitar be played using traditional guitar techniques?
While the 17 string guitar has a wider neck and increased strings, fundamental guitar techniques such as fingerpicking, strumming, and basic chords can still be applied. However, certain techniques may require adjustments and adaptations to suit the instrument’s unique characteristics. Exploring alternative fingerings and approaches can enhance playing proficiency
on the 17 string guitar.
Question 4: Is the 17 string guitar suitable for all genres of music?
The 17 string guitar’s versatility allows it to adapt to various musical genres. Its extended range and rich sound make it suitable for jazz, classical, rock, and even metal. Guitarists can explore new sonic possibilities and push the boundaries of traditional genres by incorporating the 17 string guitar into their musical endeavors.
Question 5: Are there any notable musicians who play the 17 string guitar?
Several renowned guitarists have embraced the 17 string guitar and showcased its unique capabilities. Notable musicians who have incorporated the 17 string guitar into their performances and recordings include Charlie Hunter, Michael Hedges, Trey Anastasio, and many more. Their innovative playing styles and musical contributions have helped popularize the instrument and inspire other guitarists.
Question 6: Is the 17 string guitar a good choice for beginners?
While the 17 string guitar offers a wider neck and increased strings, it can still be a suitable choice for beginners who are willing to invest time and effort in learning the instrument. Its extended range and innovative design provide ample opportunities for growth and exploration. With dedication and consistent practice, beginners can develop their skills and techniques on the 17 string guitar.
Summary:
The 17 string guitar stands out as a unique and versatile instrument that offers a wider range of notes, a rich sound, and an innovative design. While it may present initial challenges, with practice and dedication, guitarists of all levels can harness its potential. Whether exploring new musical territories or pushing the boundaries of traditional genres, the 17 string guitar empowers guitarists to create and perform with greater expressiveness and sonic possibilities.
Transition to the next article section:
Having explored the intricacies of the 17 string guitar, let’s delve into its fascinating history and evolution, tracing its origins and the influential figures who shaped its development.
Tips for Playing the 17 String Guitar
Mastering the 17 string guitar requires dedication, practice, and an understanding of its unique characteristics. Here are some valuable tips to enhance your playing experience and unlock the instrument’s full potential:
Tip 1: Explore the Extended Range
Embrace the expanded range of notes available on the 17 string guitar. Experiment with different scales, chords, and melodies that utilize the extended fretboard. This expanded range opens up new possibilities for harmonic and melodic exploration.
Tip 2: Develop Finger Dexterity
The wider neck of the 17 string guitar demands greater finger dexterity. Practice finger exercises and scales to improve your finger independence and coordination. Develop a fluid and agile technique to navigate the increased number of strings.
Tip 3: Utilize Alternate Tunings
Experiment with various alternate tunings to discover new sonic possibilities. The 17 string guitar’s extended range allows for unique and innovative tuning configurations. Explore different tunings to enhance your creativity and expand your musical vocabulary.
Tip 4: Master Tapping Techniques
Incorporate tapping techniques into your playing to create percussive effects and intricate melodies. The wider fretboard provides ample space for tapping, allowing you to execute complex patterns and add a unique dimension to your music.
Tip 5: Explore Hybrid Picking Styles
Combine traditional picking techniques with fingerstyle approaches to create hybrid picking styles. Utilize a pick for rhythm and power while incorporating fingerpicking for intricate melodies and embellishments. This hybrid approach broadens your playing capabilities.
Tip 6: Utilize Advanced Chord Voicings
Take advantage of the extended range of the 17 string guitar to explore advanced chord voicings. Experiment with different inversions, extensions, and substitutions to create rich and sophisticated harmonies that enhance your musical compositions.
Summary:
By incorporating these tips into your practice routine, you can elevate your playing skills on the 17 string guitar. Embrace the instrument’s unique characteristics, explore its extended range, develop finger dexterity, and experiment with various techniques. With dedication and perseverance, you can unlock the full potential of the 17 string guitar and create captivating and innovative music.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
As you continue your journey with the 17 string guitar, remember to stay curious, experiment with different approaches, and seek guidance from experienced players. The rewards of mastering this unique instrument are immense, and the musical possibilities are limitless.
Conclusion
Our exploration of the 17 string guitar has unveiled its unique characteristics, limitless possibilities, and the potential to redefine musical expression. This innovative instrument offers an expanded range of notes, a rich and resonant sound, and an innovative design that challenges traditional playing techniques.
For guitarists seeking to push the boundaries of their creativity, the 17 string guitar presents a vast playground for experimentation and innovation. Its extended range opens up new harmonic and melodic possibilities, while its wider neck and innovative design encourage the development of advanced techniques and playing styles. In the hands of skilled musicians, the 17 string guitar transforms into a versatile tool capable of producing captivating and groundbreaking music.
As the 17 string guitar continues to gain popularity, its impact on the music industry is yet to be fully realized. It has the potential to reshape genres, inspire new compositions, and redefine the very nature of guitar playing. For those willing to embrace its unique challenges and explore its limitless possibilities, the 17 string guitar promises an unparalleled musical journey.
