Tuning Nyckelharpa Melody Strings

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

some musicians prefer to tune that High C string up a step to a D so that they can use Viola Tuning CGDA.

[@NyckelharpaUK]

Some do. You’re right.

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@@NyckelharpaUK I find that Viola tuning on the main 4 strings makes it even more resonant and lots of players use a Violin shoulder rest so that the instrument will vibrate more freely.

[@NyckelharpaUK]

I disagree about resonating more freely. There is a lovely resonant sound tuned in C. The shoulder rest might help if you have the instrument flat against your body. But that’s not the position we’re looking for, when you tip it at an angle only the top edge is resting against the upper body leaving the main sound box free to resonate freely.

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

@@NyckelharpaUK I do have the EZ Keys Hybrid Harp which looks really steampunk and it features the Swedish Nyckelharpa, along with 4 other instruments which include Ocarina, Glockenspiel, Harp, and Reed Organ.

[@RockStarOscarStern634]

Geared pegs on all 16 strings (like the Jordan) would be even better cause you don't need to mess w/ the fine tuners or push the main string pegs in.