Basic Autoharp Tuning

5th in the "Autoharp Avenue" podcast series, champion autoharpist Jo Ann Smith gives the basics on how to tune an autoharp using an electronic tuner.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• autoharp
• autoharpist
• Jo Ann Smith
• tuning

[fouellet1701]

Sorry, but this video doesn't teach us anything!!! Where do we start? What is the lowest string tuned to? What's the sequence of tuning? Like, is there a semitone between each string? All we are told here is how a cheap clip tuner works, and nothing about tuning the autoharp.

[autoharpist]

@fouellet1701 If you have an Oscar Schmidt or a Chromaharp brand autoharp (the most commonly available), the tuning for each string is printed on the body of the autoharp, right next to each tuning pin. It is rare to find one without the tuning marks on it, unless it is very old or a custom instrument. If you do have one with out the tuning marks, it would be best to contact the maker for the exact tuning.

[fouellet1701]

@autoharpist Useful information would be like: do we tune from the middle, then down and/or up? Or start at the low end and go up as we check the tuning?? Many clip tuners have both a clip sensor and a microphone. Which mode would you recommend to use? Also, simple chromatic tuners do not detect partial harmonics, only 'absolute' notes so even when the tuner shows that a single string is in tune, playing a chord may sound wrong and fine tuning by ear may be required. Thanks.

[autoharpist]

@fouellet1701 If the autoharp is reasonably in tune you can do a decent tuning job going from the bottom string to the top, then checking again. Some prefer to tune each note separately -- all the C's, all the C#'s, etc. And some prefer to tune to pure Fifths, and then adjusting the chords by ear. Still others use a modified tuning schedule to enhance specific keys. Bob Lewis has done a ton of research on autoharp tuning -- go to Autoharp Works dot com and click on "additional information".

[telephonerecords]

Hi! I have an odd old autoharp, 25 strings (probably from Sweden or Norway...) Do you know how it should be tuned? The chord keys make sense while tuning it from the top to the bottom in 3 octaves, and then 3 extra bass notes down to the minor paralell. But on what note should I start? Don´t want to tune it too high and damage the beauty, and not too low. Do you have any idea? Thanks, Paul

[autoharpist]

@telephonerecords Sorry for the delay in answering! I'm not very familiar with the older models such as you describe. However, there is a website that has photos and a lot of information on older zithers and autoharp-type instruments. This forum won't let me post a link, but if you do a Google search for "Fretless Zithers" , you'll find it.

[mountianmusic97]

P.S. I really like your playing styles!!! I love how you also changed that Chromatic to a Diatonic!!

[mountianmusic97]

Thanx JoAnn for posting this! I saw it about a month ago & I needed to have my Autoharp tuned & I went to the music store in Abingdon, Virginia & I bought a tuner & now I tune my Guitar & Autoharp! Come on by & check out my channel sometime & maybe I can show you some of the songs I play on the Autoharp & Guitar!

[HeartNotes3]

@Thouchins Agreed!

[TZ2OurLittleDogToo]

very helpful! thanks! Hubby has tuned guitars for years - so he's tuning mine until

I get comfortable with it. He has an automatic tuner.

[mostlythemusic]

Just read some of the comments on this video. I personally found it to be a good video, whether that's because I already play the autoharp, I don't know. What I do know is that a couple of the comments/people on here appear to be rather rude/ignorant, and somewhat ungrateful. The way you tune is the way I tune.. It's the easiest way (easier with fine tuners of course! haha).. anyway, have a great week and keep up the good work ~ Ryan :O)

[Thouchins]

I just bought a used 15string Chromaharp. Your instructions are great but you didn't actually show us how to tune the harp. I'd like to know about the tools needed and see you actually adjusting the strings. Also maybe installing new strings would be nice too.

Thanks,

Terry

[TheFrillerz]

the tuner you are using does not have a pick-up in it - it works by vibration - it is just a bit of rubber not a pick up - your tuning page is not really very informative - epeacially if like me i am restringing the whole auto harp - but i shall work it out - with the aid or my vibration detector tuner - which is the same as you -

thanks anyway - but just thought i should tell you about the tuner :-)