How to Learn to Play Cittern

The cittern. Ever heard of it? It's a cool, old-timey stringed instrument. It makes a bright, happy sound that people have loved for centuries. Think Renaissance and Baroque music. It's different from a guitar or lute. Want a new challenge? Or just love the sound? This guide is for you. You'll learn everything you need to know to learn cittern!

What is a Cittern? Let's Find Out!

Before you start cittern lessons and learning cittern techniques, let's understand the instrument. The cittern has a flat back and a body shaped like a pear. Back in the day, citterns used wire strings, not the gut strings you'd find on lutes. Now, many use steel strings. This gives a brighter, louder sound. And here's a key thing: the frets aren't straight! They're fan-fretted. This helps with the different ranges of the strings.

Usually, citterns have 10 strings in pairs (5 courses). But some have 6 courses (12 strings), or even more! The tuning changes, too. It depends on the place and the music. Here are some common tunings:

• G3 G2 – D4 D3 – G4 G3 – D4 D4 (Irish Bouzouki/Cittern Tuning)
• D3 D2 – G3 G3 – C4 C4 – G4 G4 – D4 D4 (Open D Tuning)
• C3 C2 – G3 G3 – D4 D4 – A4 A4 – D4 D4 (Open C Tuning)

Knowing your tuning is the first step to cittern techniques.

Finding Your Cittern: Which One is Right?

Getting a cittern can be exciting, but tricky. Here's what to think about:

1. Budget: Prices vary. A beginner cittern might be a few hundred dollars. A fancy, handmade one could be thousands! Decide how much you want to spend first.
2. Type: Do you want a copy of an old one? Or a modern version? Modern ones might have features from instruments like the Irish bouzouki.
3. Who Made It?: Look for luthiers (instrument makers) or companies that are known for good citterns. Read reviews. Try different instruments if you can.
4. New or Used?: A used cittern can be cheaper. You might find a great deal. But check it for damage!

Ask questions! Talk to cittern players. A good cittern will make learning easier and more fun.

Let's Get Started! Finding Cittern Lessons

Learning is easier with some help. Here are ways to find cittern lessons:

• Private Teacher: The most personal way. Find someone who knows citterns or similar instruments (lute, mandolin, etc.). Check music schools, colleges, or online directories.
• Online Courses: Many websites offer lessons for all levels. They often have videos, sheet music, and exercises.
• Workshops & Festivals: Go to events for early music or folk music. You'll learn a lot and meet other players!
• Teach Yourself: It's hard, but possible! Use books, websites, and videos. You'll need to be disciplined.

Think about your budget and how you learn best. Maybe online lessons with a teacher sometimes?

Cittern Techniques: Learn the Basics!

Good cittern techniques are important. They help you make a good sound and avoid hurting yourself. Here are some basic things to learn:

Holding the Cittern

Good posture is key. Sit up straight, relax your shoulders. The cittern should be comfortable against your body. Try different positions. Find what feels natural for your hands.

Right-Hand Techniques

Your right hand makes the sound! Here are some techniques:

• Strumming: Sweep your pick or fingers across the strings. Try different patterns.
• Fingerpicking: Pluck individual strings with your fingers. Good for melodies.
• Tremolo: Pluck a string very fast, over and over. It makes a shimmering sound.

Practice slowly. Be accurate.

Left-Hand Techniques

Your left hand (if you're right-handed) presses down the strings to make notes. Here's what to know:

• Fretting: Press down behind the fret, with your fingertip. Don't press on the fret. It will sound bad.
• Sliding: Move your finger along the fret while pressing down. Makes a smooth sound between notes.
• Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: Hit a string with your finger to make a note (no picking!). Or, pull your finger off a string to make another note.

You need strong fingers!

Tuning

Keep your cittern in tune! Use a tuner or tuning fork. Watch out for intonation problems. This means some notes might sound wrong. Adjust your fingers to fix it.

What to Play? Finding Music!

Time to find music! Explore the cittern repertoire. Here are some ideas:

• Renaissance and Baroque: The cittern was popular back then. Find music from that time.
• Folk Music: Used in Irish, English, and Scottish folk music.
• Modern Music: Some new musicians use the cittern in cool ways.

Where to find music:

• Sheet Music: Look for books of cittern music.
• Online: Search online for sheet music.
• Transcribe: Learn songs by ear and write them down.
• Write Your Own!: Once you're good, try making your own music.

Start with easy songs. Be accurate. Have fun!

Tips to Keep Going!

Learning takes time. Here's how to stay motivated:

• Set Goals: Make small goals. Celebrate when you reach them!
• Practice: Practice often, even if it's just for a short time.
• Find a Friend: Play with other musicians.
• Record Yourself: Listen to yourself play. It helps you improve.
• Be Patient: Don't give up! It takes time.
• Join a Group: Find other cittern players online or in person.

Take Care of Your Cittern!

Keep your cittern in good shape:

• Clean It: Wipe it with a soft cloth.
• Change Strings: Change your strings often. They lose their sound.
• Humidity: Keep it in a case where it's not too humid or dry.
• Get a Setup: Have a professional check it every few years.

Taking care of your cittern means it will last for years.

Enjoy the Journey!

Learning the cittern is hard, but worth it! It's a gateway to a world of music. Be dedicated. Practice. Have fun! Let the music guide you!

This guide is just the start of your how to learn cittern adventure. Explore! Experiment! And most of all, have fun! The cittern offers a unique and fulfilling experience.