The tenor guitar is a four-stringed instrument tuned like the top four strings of a guitar. It’s often used in folk and bluegrass music for its bright, resonant sound.
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History of the tenor guitar
Origins
The tenor guitar emerged in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s. Its design was influenced by the need for a stringed instrument that could be played in ensembles alongside traditional guitars and banjos. The tenor guitar’s tuning made it easier for musicians who already played mandolins or other string instruments to transition to it.
Popularity
The instrument gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, particularly in American popular music and jazz bands. It was frequently used in jazz ensembles and dance bands, providing a bright, melodic counterpoint to other stringed instruments.
Construction
Tenor guitars typically have a smaller body than standard guitars, making them more comfortable to play for some musicians. They can be made from a variety of woods, with different finishes and designs, and may feature a range of pickup options for amplification.
Decline and resurgence
While the tenor guitar’s popularity waned in the mid-20th century with the rise of other instruments, it has seen a resurgence in recent years. Musicians in folk, bluegrass, and roots music have rediscovered the tenor guitar, and it has been embraced in contemporary music.