Folk

FAQs

Artists who play folk or folk inspired music have played many types of acoustic guitars over the past decades of music. In recent history, smaller bodied guitars, such as 000, Parlour or Concert sized instruments, have become popular with acoustic players worldwide with their focused bottom end, smaller, more comfortable body size & unique tonal voice.

What defines a folk guitar, and how does it differ from other acoustic guitars?

Folk guitars are known for their warm, resonant sound, often featuring steel strings and a comfortable neck profile ideal for fingerpicking and strumming. While the term "folk guitar" can encompass various body shapes, they generally have a smaller body size compared to dreadnoughts, making them more comfortable for smaller players or those seeking a balanced, focused tone. Explore our selection of folk guitars to discover the perfect instrument for crafting intimate melodies and expressive storytelling.

Which tonewoods are best suited for folk music?

Folk guitars often feature spruce tops for their bright, clear sound and mahogany or rosewood back and sides for warmth and resonance. These tonewoods complement the fingerpicking and strumming techniques often used in folk music, creating a balanced and expressive tonal palette. Discover the unique tonal characteristics of different tonewood combinations in our collection and find the perfect voice for your folk music journey.

As with beauty and the eye of the beholder, tonewoods are held by the ear of their beholder. Many players have a tonal preference, however, different or unique tonewoods can lead to new facets of your playing. Mahogany, as a softer tonewood, as a rule has a warmer, more forgiving top end, whereas rosewood is a harder wood, so it projects both high and low frequencies more than mahogany. Smooth & mellow mahogany is very popular with aggressive strumming players and because of it's high projection rosewood is very popular with softer styles of playing as it balances out with the lower volume. However, there is no hard and fast rule, and your ear and sound may be found with a unique combination of tonewood and playing style.

What are some popular folk guitar brands?

Our collection features a curated selection of folk guitars from renowned brands known for their craftsmanship and dedication to quality. Explore iconic brands like Martin, Taylor, and Gibson, each offering their unique take on the classic folk guitar sound. Even brands who are more well known for their electric guitar designs, such as Fender, have models in the smaller body catagory. For many years, we have championed Aussie guitar maker, Maton, as well as iconic international brands such as Martin & Gibson. We are also excited to partner with Taylor guitars as a new Australian dealer (2024).

What accessories do I need to get started with folk guitar?

As with all guitars, consider essential accessories like a tuner to keep your instrument in tune, a comfortable strap for playing while standing, and a sturdy case or gig bag for protection during transport. Explore our selection of capos to easily change keys, picks for various playing styles, and string sets to keep your guitar sounding fresh, clear and in tune.