Ever wondered which string instruments are always played by plucking or strumming? Well, we’re here to tell you! There are two string instruments that are traditionally played by plucking or strumming: the guitar and the ukulele. Both of these instruments have become popular all over the world, thanks to their versatility and the fact that they can be played in a variety of different styles. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, learning to play the guitar or ukulele is a great way to get started with stringed instruments. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your instrument of choice and start strumming away!
There are many unconventional stringed instruments that can be played by plucking or strumming. Some examples include the oud, which is a stringed instrument commonly used in Middle Eastern music, and the sitar, which is a stringed instrument commonly used in Indian classical music. Other examples include the banjo, which is a stringed instrument commonly used in bluegrass and country music, and the mandolin, which is a stringed instrument commonly used in bluegrass and folk music. There are also many other lesser-known instruments, such as the koto, which is a Japanese stringed instrument, and the lute, which is a stringed instrument commonly used in Renaissance music. These instruments can produce a wide range of sounds and are often used to add unique textures and flavors to musical compositions.
Types of Stringed Instruments
Acoustic Instruments
Acoustic instruments are stringed instruments that produce sound through the vibration of strings when plucked or strummed. They are typically made of wood and have a hollow body that amplifies the sound produced by the strings. Some unconventional acoustic instruments include:
- Sitar: The sitar is a stringed instrument commonly used in Indian classical music. It has a long neck and a resonator body, and is played by plucking the strings with a plectrum or fingers. The sitar has a distinctive sound that is created by the sympathetic strings that vibrate when the main strings are plucked.
- Banjo: The banjo is a stringed instrument that is commonly associated with country and bluegrass music. It has a round body and a neck with strings that are plucked with the fingers or a plectrum. The banjo has a bright, twangy sound that is created by the open-back or resonator design of the instrument.
- Bouzouki: The bouzouki is a stringed instrument that is commonly used in Greek music. It has a round body and a neck with strings that are plucked with the fingers or a plectrum. The bouzouki has a mellow, resonant sound that is created by the wooden body and the tuning of the strings.
Electric Instruments
Electric instruments are stringed instruments that are designed to be amplified using pickups and electronic devices. These instruments are typically used in popular music genres such as rock, jazz, and blues.
Examples of unconventional electric instruments include:
- Chapman Stick: The Chapman Stick is a musical instrument that was invented by Emmett Chapman in the 1960s. It is a type of electric instrument that is played with the fingers or a pick. The Chapman Stick has a unique design that allows the player to play multiple strings at once, making it possible to play chords and melodies simultaneously.
- Ebow: The Ebow is a handheld device that uses electromagnetic fields to create sustained notes on an electric guitar. It is played by holding the Ebow against the strings and plucking them with the other hand. The Ebow produces a unique sound that is similar to a sustained note on a violin or cello.
- MIDI controller: A MIDI controller is a type of electronic instrument that can be used to control other electronic devices such as synthesizers and drum machines. MIDI controllers can be played with the fingers or a pick, and they can be used to create a wide range of sounds and rhythms.
Overall, electric instruments offer a wide range of sounds and playing techniques that can be used to create a variety of musical styles. These instruments are often used in recording studios and live performances, and they are an important part of modern popular music.
Techniques for Plucking and Strumming
Plucking Techniques
Plucking is a common technique used in playing various stringed instruments. It involves the use of fingers or a pick to pull or strike the strings of the instrument, creating a sound. There are several plucking techniques that can be used, each with its unique characteristics and sound.
Types of Plucking Techniques
There are several types of plucking techniques that can be used on stringed instruments. These include:
Pizzicato
Pizzicato is a plucking technique commonly used on the violin. It involves the use of the fingers to pluck the strings, creating a bright and clear sound. This technique is often used in classical music and is characterized by a sharp attack and a clean articulation.
Plucking
Plucking is a general term used to describe the act of pulling or striking the strings of a stringed instrument with the fingers or a pick. This technique is used on various instruments, including the guitar, and produces a range of sounds depending on the type of plucking and the strings being played.
Slap and Pull
Slap and pull is a plucking technique commonly used on the double bass. It involves the use of the thumb and fingers to produce a unique sound on the instrument. The technique involves slapping the string with the thumb and then pulling it with the fingers, creating a percussive and distinctive sound.
Examples of Plucking Techniques on Different Instruments
Here are some examples of plucking techniques on different instruments:
Pizzicato on Violin
Pizzicato is a common technique used on the violin. It involves the use of the fingers to pluck the strings, creating a bright and clear sound. This technique is often used in classical music and is characterized by a sharp attack and a clean articulation.
Plucking on Guitar
Slap and Pull on Double Bass
Strumming Techniques
Description of Strumming Techniques
Strumming is a technique used to play stringed instruments such as guitars, ukuleles, and bass guitars. It involves striking the strings with a pick or the fingers in a rhythmic pattern to produce music. Strumming is a fundamental technique for most stringed instruments and is used to create a variety of musical styles, from folk to rock.
Examples of Strumming Techniques on Different Instruments
- Downstrumming on Guitar: Downstrumming is a strumming technique used on the guitar. It involves striking the strings with the pick or fingers in a downward motion. This technique is commonly used in various genres of music, including rock, pop, and folk. Downstrumming produces a full and rich sound and is used to emphasize the downbeats in a rhythm.
- Strumming on Ukulele: Strumming is a fundamental technique used on the ukulele. It involves striking the strings with the pick or fingers in a upward or downward motion. This technique is commonly used in various genres of music, including pop, rock, and folk. Strumming produces a bright and cheerful sound and is used to create a variety of rhythms.
- Sweep Picking on Bass Guitar: Sweep picking is a advanced strumming technique used on the bass guitar. It involves striking the strings with the pick or fingers in a precise and controlled manner. This technique is commonly used in various genres of music, including rock, metal, and jazz. Sweep picking produces a fast and precise sound and is used to create complex and intricate rhythms.
The Importance of Unconventional Instruments
Exploring unconventional stringed instruments is crucial for several reasons. It not only broadens our understanding of music but also reveals new possibilities for creating sounds. Here are some reasons why it’s important to explore unconventional instruments:
1. Diversifying Musical Genres
Unconventional instruments can introduce new timbres and textures to music, thereby expanding the possibilities of different musical genres. For instance, using an electric carillon in a rock band can create a unique sound that sets the band apart from others. This can lead to the emergence of new sub-genres and styles of music.
2. Pushing Boundaries
Exploring unconventional instruments challenges the boundaries of what is considered “normal” or “conventional.” By pushing these boundaries, musicians can discover new ways of creating music and expressing themselves. This can lead to the development of new techniques and playing styles that were previously unimaginable.
3. Encouraging Experimentation
Unconventional instruments encourage experimentation and creativity in music. By playing instruments that are not commonly used, musicians can discover new sounds and techniques that they might not have found otherwise. This can lead to the creation of new and innovative music that pushes the boundaries of what is possible.
4. Preserving Cultural Heritage
Some unconventional instruments have a rich cultural heritage and are an essential part of a particular culture or region. By exploring these instruments, musicians can learn about and preserve the cultural heritage of different regions and communities. This can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures and their music.
In conclusion, exploring unconventional stringed instruments is essential for expanding our understanding of music and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. By doing so, we can discover new sounds, techniques, and styles that were previously unimaginable, and create innovative and unique music that sets us apart from others.
FAQs
1. What are the two most common string instruments that are played by plucking or strumming?
The two most common string instruments that are played by plucking or strumming are the guitar and the bass guitar. These instruments have strings that are plucked or strummed with the fingers or a pick to produce sound.
2. Are there any other stringed instruments that can be played by plucking or strumming?
Yes, there are many other stringed instruments that can be played by plucking or strumming. Some examples include the banjo, mandolin, ukulele, and harp. These instruments have strings that are plucked or strummed to produce sound, similar to the guitar and bass guitar.
3. How do you play a banjo?
To play a banjo, you hold the instrument with the neck resting on your left knee and use your right hand to pluck or strum the strings with a pick or your fingers. The banjo has four or five strings, and the tuning can be adjusted to suit the music you are playing.
4. How do you play a mandolin?
To play a mandolin, you hold the instrument with the neck resting on your left knee and use your right hand to pluck or strum the strings with a pick or your fingers. The mandolin has four strings, and the tuning can be adjusted to suit the music you are playing.
5. How do you play a ukulele?
To play a ukulele, you hold the instrument in your lap or on your knee and use your right hand to pluck or strum the strings with a pick or your fingers. The ukulele has four strings, and the tuning can be adjusted to suit the music you are playing.
6. How do you play a harp?
To play a harp, you sit or stand facing the instrument and use your right hand to pluck or strum the strings with a pick or your fingers. The harp has many strings, and the tuning can be adjusted to suit the music you are playing. It takes time and practice to learn how to play the harp, as it requires precision and control to produce a beautiful sound.
