Guitar

- Has SIX metal strings

- Pluck strings with a PICK

- Used in FOLK, BLUEGRASS and COUNTRY music

- Also used in Classical and Rock n’ Roll music

- Originated from Spain

Violin

- When used in Folk or Bluegrass, it is called a FIDDLE.

- Has FOUR metal strings

- Play with a BOW that is made of HORSEHAIR

- Originated in Italy

Banjo

- Has FIVE metal strings

- Pluck with fingers (thumb, index finger and middle finger)

- Pick is used on the thumb and index finger

- Originated in Africa

- African slaves brought the Banjo to America

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrlqQ1_vZVE

Mandolin

- Has EIGHT metal strings that are grouped in TWOS

- Pluck or Strum with a PICK

- Mainly used in BLUEGRASS music

- Bill Monroe, a Bluegrass musician, made it famous!

- Originated in Italy

Double Bass

- Has FOUR metal strings

- Looks very similar to the FIDDLE

- Used to keep the tempo

Dobro

- Has SIX metal strings

- Played HORIZONTALLY in the musician’s lap

- Fancy Name is RESOPHONIC GUITAR.

- Very similar to the Steel Guitar used in Country music

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GCsDrwuwJE

Dulcimer

- Has TWO to SIX strings

- Appalachian folk instrument

- Native to the Carolinas, Virginia and KENTUCKY

Other Folk Instruments

Autoharp

Mouthbow

Washtub Bass (similar to Double Bass)

Harmonica

Spoons

Washboard

Jugs

Kazoo

And many others!