Best Autoharp: Complete Guide & Review

autoharp

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Did you know that Mother Maybelle Carter once said, “The autoharp is the easiest instrument in the world to play and the hardest to play well”?

This fascinating instrument has been making waves in folk music since 1882, when Charles F. Zimmermann first patented it in Philadelphia.

Today, we’re going to dive deep into everything you need to know about this incredibly versatile instrument that’s been featured in countless folk and country artists music.

Whether you’re just starting your musical journey or looking to add a new sound to your collection, the autoharp might just be your next musical love affair!

What Is an Autoharp? Understanding the Basics

what is an autoharp

The autoharp is basically what you’d get if a guitar and a piano had a baby – and trust me, that’s a good thing!

This unique instrument combines the strumming action of a guitar with a mechanical chord-pressing system that would make any engineer proud.

At its heart, it’s a chorded zither, but don’t let that fancy term scare you off.

Picture this: a rectangular box with anywhere from 36 to 48 strings stretched across it, just waiting to be strummed.

Above these strings sit what musicians call chord bars – these are the real magic makers.

Each bar has a set of felt pads that, when pressed, dampen certain strings while leaving others free to ring out, creating perfect chords every time. Pretty neat, right?

Here’s what makes the autoharp so special:

  • It’s one of the few instruments that lets you play full chords with just one button press
  • The string arrangement allows for both melody and harmony to be played simultaneously
  • Its design hasn’t changed much since the 1880s because it just works so well

Back in the day, autoharps were super popular in schools because they’re relatively easy to get started with.

The Oscar Schmidt company (still the go-to manufacturer today) used to sell them door-to-door to schools across America. Talk about old-school marketing!

The modern autoharp comes in several varieties:

  • Diatonic models (simpler, with fewer chord options)
  • Chromatic models (more versatile, with more chord choices)
  • 15-chord models (great for beginners)
  • 21-chord models (preferred by serious players)

Speaking of sound, let’s bust a myth: despite its name, the autoharp isn’t actually a harp at all. It’s more closely related to the zither family.

Its sound is warm and full, kind of like a guitar but with this magical, shimmering quality that’s totally its own thing.

The instrument has found its way into all sorts of music genres, but it really shines in:

  • Folk music (obviously!)
  • Country (just ask June Carter Cash)
  • Bluegrass (adds a wonderful texture)
  • Gospel (perfect for those heavenly harmonies)

Getting Started: How to Play the Autoharp

autoharp strings

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of playing this beautiful instrument.

First things first – don’t let anyone tell you the autoharp is just for beginners.

Sure, you can learn a few basic chords in minutes, but mastering this bad boy? That’s a whole different story.

Starting position is crucial – and here’s where a lot of folks go wrong.

Hold the autoharp vertically against your chest, with the chord buttons facing away from you.

Lefties, you’re in luck! The autoharp is totally ambidextrous.

Some players prefer to play it on a table, and that’s cool too. Whatever floats your boat!

Basic strumming patterns to get you started:

  • Down-stroke only (perfect for beginners)
  • Down-up pattern (adds more rhythm)
  • The “Carter scratch” (made famous by the Carter family)
  • Pinch patterns (for more advanced players)

Here’s a pro tip that’ll save you hours of frustration: start with simple two-chord songs.

Seriously, you can play hundreds of tunes with just C and G7 chords.

Once you’ve got those down, adding more chords is like adding sprinkles to an already awesome ice cream cone.

Speaking of chord progressions, here are some classic patterns that sound great on autoharp:

  • I-IV-V (the bread and butter of folk music)
  • I-vi-IV-V (the classic ’50s progression)
  • ii-V-I (for when you’re feeling jazzy)

Choosing Your First Autoharp: A Buyer’s Guide

Let’s face it – buying your first autoharp is kind of like adopting a pet.

You want to make sure it’s the right fit, and you definitely don’t want to end up with a lemon!

The good news is that with a little know-how, you can make a choice that’ll keep you strumming happily for years to come.

First things first – let’s talk about what really matters in an autoharp:

  • Number of chord bars (15 vs 21 is a big decision)
  • Build quality (solid wood vs laminate)
  • String type and quality
  • Action height (how easy it is to press the buttons)

Best Autoharp of 2025

Oscar Schmidt OS-21C Autoharp 21 Bars

Let’s talk about the cream of the crop – the Oscar Schmidt OS-21C Autoharp.

This bad boy has been the go-to choice for both beginners and pros, and there’s a darn good reason for that.

It’s like the Swiss Army knife of autoharps – versatile, reliable, and built to last.

What makes the OS-21C special:

    • Rock-solid construction with select maple body
    • 21 chord bars for maximum versatility
    • Fine-tuning mechanisms that actually stay in tune
    • Rich, balanced tone that works in any genre
BUY NOW

Maintenance and Care Tips

Listen up, folks – taking care of your autoharp isn’t rocket science, but it does require some TLC.

Think of it like maintaining a car – regular small efforts prevent big problems down the road.

Essential maintenance routine:

  • Wipe down strings after each use (your hands are basically acid factories)
  • Keep it in its case when not in use
  • Regular tuning checks (at least weekly)
  • Humidity control (45-55% is the sweet spot)

Where to Buy Your Autoharp

Alright, let’s talk shopping!

Buying an autoharp isn’t quite like picking up a guitar at your local music store – you need to be a bit more strategic about where you shop.

Trusted retailers include:

  • Elderly Instruments (they really know their stuff)
  • Folk Music Center (great customer service)
  • Local specialty acoustic instrument shops
  • Guitar Center

Conclusion

Whether you’re drawn to the autoharp’s rich history, its unique sound, or just want to try something different, you’re in for a real treat.

The autoharp community is one of the friendliest bunch of musicians you’ll ever meet, and there’s always room for one more player!

Remember, every great autoharp player started exactly where you are now.

Take your time choosing the right instrument, give it the care it deserves, and most importantly – have fun with it!

The autoharp might look a bit intimidating at first, but it’s really just waiting to become your new best musical friend.

Ready to start your autoharp journey? Take what you’ve learned here, do a bit more research if you need to, and then take that leap.

Your perfect autoharp is out there waiting for you – go find it!

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FAQ’s About the Autoharp

Is the autoharp easy to play?

The autoharp is considered one of the easiest instruments to start playing, but mastering it takes dedication.

Beginners can learn basic chords and simple songs within a few hours, thanks to the instrument’s chord bar system that automatically forms chords when pressed.

However, developing advanced techniques like the Carter scratch, melodic picking, and complex arrangements requires several months of regular practice.

What is another name for the autoharp?

The autoharp is also known as a chorded zither, its more technically accurate name.

When it was first invented in 1882 by Charles F. Zimmermann, it was called a “chord zither.”

The name “autoharp” was actually a trademark owned by the Oscar Schmidt company, though it has become the commonly accepted term for the instrument regardless of manufacturer.

How long does it take to learn autoharp?

Learning timeline for the autoharp typically breaks down as follows:

  • Basic chords and simple songs: 1-2 hours
  • Comfortable strumming patterns: 1-2 weeks
  • Basic melodic playing: 1-2 months
  • Advanced techniques: 6 months to 1 year

Most beginners can play simple folk songs within their first week of practice.

However, developing a full repertoire and mastering techniques like the Carter scratch or advanced fingerpicking patterns usually takes about 6 months of regular practice.

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J. Scalco

J. Scalco is a musician and actor originally from New Orleans, La. With over 25 years of experience in the music and film industry, he has worked on national commercials, hit television shows, and indie feature films. Explore JScalco.com to learn more about his musical journey, acting career and to learn cool information in the entertainment industry.