You will want an autoharp after watching this video

[@alfrede.neuman8898]

I''ve been playing autoharp 52 years. I've gone to some jams and have gotten some rolling eyes over the years. When I start playing the eyes stop rolling and people really listen, They come up after the jam and say, "I've never heard an autoharp played liked that, it's beautiful!!" I host 2 jams a month. We play, Bluegrass, Gospel, and Old-Time String Band music.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Glad to hear from an experienced autoharp player. This is quite a common reaction in those kinds of situations. The folks at the Bluegrass festival earlier this year kept asking me about the autoharp after I jumped in a circle and played a break. Thank you for watching. Let's keep showing people what's so great about this instrument. All the best!

[@alfrede.neuman8898]

@@MountainHomeJerrel Autoharps are prominent instruments at jams around the country. I especially like playing with our friends Penny Creek Band locally. They always love having the autoharp join in their jams. It really fits in with their set lists each time. No problem for me keeping pace with them at ANY tempo. They like the sound of the harp during songs and tunes now that they have no fiddler in the band. It gives them a nice full sound as well. People come up after their sets and say that the autoharp sounds great with the band. I do mic it with a lavalier mic that helps a lot with the other instruments. Autoharps don’t project well with other instruments in the mix.

[@casenix]

Where are you located? Ok I’d love to come check it out, I travel a lot for work!

[@alfrede.neuman8898]

@@casenix East Central FL, Brevard County.

[@luisuriashermosillo6804]

Alfred Neuman???? What me worried? Autoharp is great!!!...I did played it for a while, and even did a contemporary piece on it that I recorded, and people cant know what instrument it is... 🙏

[@johnwise7693]

Nice rendition of Hotel California. My partner pulled out her autoharp yesterday with the intention of selling it after not playing it for years. She tuned it up, and I started fooling around with it. I play guitar and banjo, so have some idea about picking, and was able to make it melodic after a few minutes. I enjoyed it-she's not going to sell it now!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

That's fantastic. Thanks foe sharing that and I'm glad to hear that. I'm working on a series of videos to help people get started learning Autoharp.

[@DJ-uk5mm]

My mum was the school teacher …..50 years ago I went into her classroom when I was a child and there was an autoharp that one of the other teachers had left behind. I started playing with it And really enjoyed myself, picking out tunes and melodies Unfortunately the next day the teacher from another school took it away. And I’ve never seen one since. This was great, reminded me of my childhood and my mum, thanks

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

That's such a great story. You know, these aren't difficult to find or very expensive and they show up often on eBay. I'm glad I could help bring back some of those memories for you. Thanks for watching. Cheers!

[@jasonjohnston94]

My grade school music teacher in the 1970s played autoharp during our music classes as the accompaniment while we sang.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I'm a bit envious. I would have really enjoyed that but we didn't have these in school when I was a kid.

[@BigPapiDanimal]

Clicked on the video because I thought the girl in the thumbnail looked cute, was wildly disappointed but then stayed for the autoharp

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I'm not sure if I should feel disappointed, insulted, or complimented. Thanks for watching anyway. Teeheehee. :flicks hair in the wind:

[@tas6313]

John Sebastian played autoharp in a lot of the Lovin’ Spoonful records. That is how I was introduced to the instrument. It was 1965, my favorite year for music. Ever since, I’ve been amazed. Love the instrument and am please someone so young as yourself playing this beautiful instrument. Thanks for the video.

[@dumbdumegg]

People saying that this isn't a real instrument is really stupid, because, in my opinion, if it makes sound, it's an instrument. Btw, I just love the way you play these not so known instruments, it's heavenly! Keep these videos up!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for your kind comment. I love hearing what my favorite old songs sound like on an Autoharp. You wouldn't expect to hear Rainbow or Eagles on Autoharp so when you play that, people always get a pleasant surprise.

[@jeremyvolland8508]

Amen. You push a button and get a sound, so it must not be an instrament? Piano anyone?

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

@@jeremyvolland8508 piano is literally all buttons and only like what, 3 pedals? That's barely the same amount of pedals my CAR has.

[@ralphbenites1312]

It’s a string instrument those younger generation don’t a dam thing about musical instrument’s my teacher played the autoharp in grade school and John Sebastian played one from the lovin spoonful do you believe it magic.watch the video

[@ralphbenites1312]

Pardon my exspresion

[@marybarratt2649]

This is the first time I’ve heard of an auto harp. I love it. I’d be thrilled to play any instrument that makes such beautiful music. Thank you for uploading.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it! I hope you can find an autoharp one day. Happy holidays!

[@TheWhiskeyCowboyLife]

I simply love "modern" music played on instruments that folks don't normally associate with them. At one time ALL music was "modern" so why there isn't more expansion using unconventional (to modern standards) instruments is beyond me. Good job... keep it up! Cheers.

[@professornuke7562]

About 10 years ago I got asked to a pub on a Saturday to play some old time with a long time afternoon group. The people that asked me were some serious Melbourne pub rock Royalty. I showed up with an upright bass and a dobro. I had a blast. One feller there with a beautiful autoharp he'd been playing intrigued me. As many of the people present had VERY unique looking instruments, especially the banjo players, it became obvious that they had made them themselves....beautiful, unique and no branding on them. So having mucked about with an autoharp when I was first learning guitar age 7-9 I asked the feller about his harp. Turned out he'd made it it himself. Yes, and the tuners and the fine tuners, and the dampers (more chords than a piano accordion). I asked him "Do you just chord along " (or do you solo on individual notes) I was stopped mid sentence by a Harpo Marx style lick played with five fingers across all the strings. Not a real instrument? Don't waste my time!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thanks for sharing that story! That's great to hear. I wonder if that group and pub session is still going to this day. Sounds like a fantastic group.

[@professornuke7562]

@@MountainHomeJerrel Post pandemic...I owe it to myself to answer this question seriously. I have been VERY lazy and need to fire it back up. Last month I saw The Cruel Sea reform and do a show, supported by an all girl surf band with one of those old timers drumming. Nice to reconnect with Sue Shaw!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

@professornuke7562 that sounds fantastic

[@elsa_draws_stuff]

I clicked this video because I love folk music and then smiled even more when you started playing Pink Floyd!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

High five to my fellow Pink Floyd fan! Thank you for watching.

[@FerrisFareMusic]

Any of us that followed Bryan Bowers for years know how great it is to use the autoharp. Nice job.

[@aBachwardsfellow]

I "sat at the feet" (literally) of Bryan Bowers at a coffee house in 1974. As a classically-trained pianist and organist, I figured out pretty quickly how he was using the chord bars to get the needed melody notes and harmony. It has been my go-to fun/portable instrument ever since. I'm also a huge fan of Jo Ann Smith -- I highly recommend that anyone interested in the autoharp vist her channel as she has not only some of the most beautiful performances, but some excellent tutorials as well.

[@jakeglanville6835]

Dear Jerrel fromAustralia. Thank you very much for your kind reply. Have been looking at your videos with much interest and they're all to be applauded. Looking at the various autoharp vids, yours is easily the one which has taught me the most, so very many thanks for that too. My 36 chord autoharp had 12 bars, and each bar had a three position lever so you could get an amazing variety of chords. Pretty good for 1890 something! All the Best, Jake.

[@Nan-59]

Î fondly remember the autoharp being played in grade school music class!❤❤❤ It’s so cool to see it can be played wayy cooler than I ever thought! Thanks!❤❤✌🏻

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching! I'll play more and share more very soon.

[@eskimberly7424]

I had an elementary school music teacher who played the autoharp to accompany the class in singing. Haven’t heard one since. Thanks for making a video about this awesome instrument!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

@eskimberly7424 thank you for watching. I'll make more videos playing some old timey music then. All the best!

[@TanCreti]

Great! The Autoharp is versatile. No dusty bars here -- mine leads the singing in church (smile).

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

How wonderful! I do like to hear that. All the best to you.

[@beautifuldreamer3991]

This lovely instrument sounds like something angels would play....

[@2degucitas]

My mom had an autoharp. It made it easy to play chords for singing in Sunday School class. I only saw her play it once. That was the mid 60's.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

That's great. I find people tend to sing along when I play Autoharp as it is clear and easy to hear the chords.

[@2degucitas]

@@MountainHomeJerrel happy you're keeping the instrument visible

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

@2degucitas that will take a huge community effort. We can all keep discussing and sharing the autoharp to make sure future generations can learn about it and enjoy it.

[@rineric3214]

Excellent video! I've been playing autoharp ever since Joni Mitchell made the dulcimer popular because of her "Blue" album. I wanted a third instrument, but dulcimer was taken, so I went for the autoharp because my aunt had one she gave me. I was overjoyed to learn that you can play MELODIES on one. By pinching the thumb and a finger (or both) at the same time, the treble note is the melody note. Autoharp is subtractive, like sculpture. It plays any kind of music. It's like a small piano.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

So glad to hear from you! The Autoharp is such a beautiful, satisfying instrument. I hope we can reach tons of people around the world and let them know what a great instrument it is to play.

[@rineric3214]

@@MountainHomeJerrelIt should become more popular. We need to write new autoharp songs..

[@iainmcaleese5468]

What a lovely guy. Good luck to you.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for that, and thanks for watching.

[@globyois]

I’m a guitarist and a non-elitist as far as music goes (I don’t care who or what it is, if it’s good I like it) and I think that sounds gorgeous!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching and enjoying this thing. I hope you get a chance to play and enjoy one someday.

[@larryb5496]

Mother Maybelle Carter was a great autoharp player in addition to being an innovative and influential guitarist and one of the founders of commercial country music. Check out her Mother Maybelle: Queen of the Auto Harp record on KZbin, especially tracks 1, 6, and 7. Wildwood Flower is also on that record if you want to hear an example of her seminal guitar style.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for sharing this. I hope many people see this comment and check that out too.

[@williamwoolcock]

Was going to write the same thing. "Will the Circle be unbroken"- Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Compilation album- Great!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

@@williamwoolcock yes, they've got great recordings of beautiful performances. I didn't realize people wanted to hear me just playing the instrument so I'll upload more videos of just the playing. Thanks for watching.

[@craigbrowning9448]

I had access to one of these instruments when I was a small child. I at least get to know the difference between a major and a minor chord from playing around with one. The abridged chords is what on keep you from going too far on it. The Autoharp could be made more advanced if the chord buttons were based on the principle of the stradella bass machine seen on accordions. They have an additive principal to them (meaning more chord buttons are used to play a more sophisticated chord voicing C-Major + G-Minor = C9) while the chord damper bars on an autoharp have a subtractive nature (such as playing a C-G perfect fifth if you play the C-Major and the C-Minor at the same time).

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

That's very interesting. Thanks for sharing that. I'm going to look up stradella bass machines.

[@craigbrowning9448]

@@MountainHomeJerrel It's basically the button portion of a Piano-Accordion. The root movements around the circle of fifths with C in the dead center. Towards the top there are two rows of bass notes, the highest playing the Third, and the second one playing the Root. Blew that or the chord qualities, Major-Minor-7th-Diminished. The -7th and Diminished. Columns are missing the fifth to the chords that allows the 7th Chord to be playable with any upper structures or fifth alterations. Similarly the diminished chord can also be used as a Minor 6th Chord. If you want a regular 7th chord with a fifth, add the Major Triad on the same column. If you want a full diminished seventh chord, play another diminished chord on the same row either 4 buttons above or 4 buttons below. In the context of adapting this setup to an autoharp, the bass buttons in the first two rows would be omitted because the low notes are selected by disturbing the little portion of the strings.

[@kimadams2995]

You were right. I did want an autoharp after watching this, and by curious coincidence, got one passed on to me and I've been learning to play it all year. I'm in no danger of being your greatest competition, but I'm having a blast.

[@petehealy9819]

Nice video! I'm amazed that anyone wouldn't know what the autoharp is; they were a staple in my elementary-school music classes. Of course, that was 60yrs ago, and we all know that most American lawmakers and school boards nowadays think that teaching anything in the arts is a waste of time and money, so no surprise that basic music education has been tossed so we can train American kids with "job skills" they can use until they're replaced by automation or AI. Anyway, thanks for the reminder about the fun of the autoharp.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Things change quickly in a matter of years. We can't rely on education systems to pass down the things we are passionate about to the next generations. Maybe we can make internet videos to share those kinds of things!

[@Nan-59]

Your comment is close to what I also commented! The autoharp in grade school music class! Good ‘ol times the 60’s! ❤❤❤✌🏻

[@retrogroovecraft]

I was going to say, the only time a saw an autoharp in person, was in mid-grade school. Our usual teacher was out on maternity leave, and the substitute pulled one out, to accompany our recorder lessons. Never saw one again, except maybe on a 70's variety TV show.

[@MirExodus15]

Thank you for this intro. I play violin with our worship team, doing melody, fill and jamming. I just bought myself an autoharp. I love that you use your autoharp in a variety of styles. More tutorials please!!!

[@thelanavishnuorchestra]

Well, I'm sold. Gonna be on the lookout for one

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for enjoying the video. I'm going to upload a buying guide video this week to help people looking to pick one up. Happy new year, have a great 2024!

[@Woodstock271]

This was really cool and strangely nostalgic. My father played an Autoharp (as well as many other instruments), when I was a little boy in the 60’s. I remember the Autoharp sounding magical though. He showed me how to push the chord buttons and strum chords. I was instantly playing “music”! I know that was the very first instrument I’d ever picked up, I must have been 6 years old then. Decades went by and I was a drummer and guitarist in rock bands, the Autoharp a distant memory. In fact, I thought the Autoharp was some ancient instrument that faded away in the 60’s and any surviving examples would be antiques long forgotten. But then I saw your video recommendation and thought, “Autoharps are still around?! Cool! I need to hear it again!” Man, you really brought back memories. Nothing on this planet sounds like an autoharp and that sound is stored in my old dusty memory banks. So glad that the autoharp is still alive and I’ll be listening for it to sneak into the music scene again. Thanks man, very cool! 🤙🏼🍻🎼🎸

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Hey thanks for sharing your story. It's great to hear from you. As a kid of the 90s I was raised in a world led by hippies (maybe former) so it only makes sense I reach back into history and help bring some attention to the Autoharp. Honestly it is surprising we didn't have them when I was in school. I'll play more music for you then!

[@Woodstock271]

@@MountainHomeJerrel , Hey thanks man! I was raised by hippies in real time. And that’s definitely why my dad had an autoharp. So cool that you’re into it. Looking forward to more. 🤙🏼

[@harryburkett7754]

Singing around the piano or in the woods around the campfire...brings back great memories. Thanks!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Hey, I'll do a real campfire soon with some songs to sing and jam along to.

[@genghis_connie]

I love it! Your playing style is cool. If it sounds good, it’s music. If you love playing it, you’ll making art. Thanks for sharing this!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching and enjoying the music. All the best to you!

[@mayamartin7359]

We actually have my neighbour’s old autoharp lying around, I might have to show my daughter your tutorials!!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Oh that's great! I hope my videos can be useful.

[@theclearsounds3911]

It took me an embarrassingly long time to hear Hotel California! As a 9 year old, I got a toy version of an autoharp, but without the chord buttons. Never was able to make any real music with it. Now that I watched this video, I understand how a real one works. Wow, what I missed!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Toys like that are often enough to instill a lifetime of inspiration. I hope you enjoyed the video. I'll share more music very soon.

[@smokinmoose2]

Back in the very early ‘70s I bought a 21 chord autoharp at The Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago. At first I played like most did by just strumming the chords until one night, at the Earl of Old Town I saw Bryan Bowers play with finger picks in a kind of Travis style and I was forever changed. I played it for years, along with playing guitar and in fact played with a folk/country/rock/bluegrass band (you can find our album from 1976 here on KZbin) and carved out a kind of niche doing sessions for rock bands as kind of filler to flesh out the arrangements. It was very good to me but I was getting away from it since I was getting more into playing guitar. Then one day I took it back to Old Town to get it restrung and tuned but when they told me the price (more than I had originally paid for it) I declined. I’ve had it ever since and it sits on a shelf in my studio. But watching this video has got me thinking about fixing it up and playing it again. And you play just how I remember Bryan Bower playing.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thanks for sharing that part of your story. That is a huge compliment, so I thank you. It's great to hear your experience with these beautiful instruments. Sometimes you can find string packs on eBay for decent prices. I'm still early on my auto harp journey, but what I do know is when you jam on an autoharp with music people can sing along to, they love it. I hope you get it restrung and back in shape and I hear from you after. All the best!

[@megchow8245]

Hearing Brian Bowers years and years ago inspired me to get an autoharp and learn the “basics”!

[@SandyS.787]

Bryan Bowers!!! A blast from the past, indeed. So inspirational to those of us with minimal autoharp skills. Also LOVE that you remember the Earl of Old Town. One of my favorite hangs back in the day, even though I lived many miles away!😄😘

[@davidrohlader3498]

Hal WEEKS has a video on restringing and the strings are available from d'Aigle. Easy please, get to playing again!!

[@roldo23]

The tip about mixing the fingerpicks was useful. Thanks for that.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thanks for watching. Merry Christmas! Cheers

[@TomBuskey]

My school music teacher for grades 1-6 always brought his autoharp. I still remember a time when he had us kids play & strum in the 2nd grade

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

That's so great. We didn't have any autoharps when I was in school but I would have loved it.

[@lm2205]

Now that is about the best rendition of Hotel California I've ever heard. Very cool sound. 💖

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I really appreciate that. Thank you for listening and enjoying.

[@macroman52]

dUH, i thought it was Angie by the Rolling Stones

[@AvaPotterfieldandFriends]

I have never heard anyone play it like you are. Love it!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching! I hope more people out there will start enjoying the Autoharp too.

[@suechan6414]

Thanks so much for doing this video! When I was a kid (55 years ago), we had a simple autoharp. I learned to strum chords on it. Kinda boring and we didn't have electronic tuners at the time so it never sounded all that great. Was stunned to watch you play Appalachian style and "pinch" melodies and decided I had to have one! A good one. I was fortunate to find a 21 chord vintage Oscar Schmidt on eBay that a long-time teacher refurbished and put on new strings on my request. I taught myself accordion by ear, which combines chords with melody so was able to figure out how to pluck out songs we sang at camp, in church and in grade school. Just so much fun! I'll get better technique in time but sure is a beautiful sounding instrument that isn't hard to learn. Look forward to watching all your other videos.

[@sdnlawrence5640]

My 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Crews played one. I'm 66, haven't seen one in decades. Still remember her teaching us 'This Land is Your Land..."

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

That would be a lovely song. I'll play it for you and upload the video soon!

[@dulcimerworshipmorewithdon1523]

You play beautifully! Thanks for sharing. 🙂

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching.

[@gileslangley941]

When I started learning autoharp we did play with about 30 of us together, so it was an autoharp orchestra

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I bet that sounded incredible. I hope I can hear something like that one day. maybe if I keep spreading the word...

[@commodoresixfour7478]

Very smart of you not to mention that song. The copy right holder likes to pull down anyone who plays their music. It sucks because I like hearing it on different instruments.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

It's weird that copyright holders are being so mean spirited about music, especially when that music comes from an era of free spiritedness and the idea of goodwill towards others. Make love, not war, follow your passion. Maybe we need a reminder of that kind of attitude.

[@heidigilsrud3800]

WOW! That was the most beautiful Hotel California I've ever heard.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you so much of listening and enjoying. I'll play and share more music for you.

[@berniarmstrong]

That extract from "Hotel California" was the coolest use I have ever seen of one of these!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for that. It's great fun playing your old favorite songs on Autoharp that you've been playing for years on guitar. When you're sitting around a campfire or old saloon and you start a song people recognize, it puts a smile on people's faces.

[@howlinhobbit]

excellent! I went to an open mike at the Crossroads Mall (near Seattle, WA) and the emcee that night was a lady named Barbara, who played autoharp. she played it well. at one point she said she was going to play an Irish jig on it. I’m thinking, “sure you are!” damn if she didn’t! she did things like you talk about in this video, but taken to the extreme. by the time she was done, and all of us picked up our bruised chins from the table, I had changed my mind entirely about the autoharp. still can’t afford one, but I have lots of instruments I already play (to one degree or another), so I’m happy enough trying for moderate proficiency on the rest.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

That's so fantastic! Thanks for sharing that story. I bet it was real great to see and hear that. Well happy holidays to you!

[@howlinhobbit]

@@MountainHomeJerrel I love surprises like that. p.s. she’s a delightful lady, whether playing or not. we were both involved in a local, mainly folk music organization called Victory Music. they were the sponsors of the open mike she was emceeing. I wish there was something similar to that here in Kalamazoo. sometimes I feel like I’m dying here… assuming I haven’t already died and this is like purgatory or suchlike.

[@KirstenReed]

I remember these from grade school! I'm a songwriter who mostly just loves playing the drums. I've been looking for an instrument that is simple (and melodic) enough for me to accompany myself with singing. I think autoharp is a great option--thanks for this!

[@epicnamepwns1242]

You've added one more bit to my musical education and and appreciation. Once I heard the examples I felt certain I'd heard autoharp in recordings before and all the references in the comments confirmed that impression. I've surely heard some of them and perhaps a few others not listed here but I now believe I'll identify autoharp when I hear it in future. As to "real" instruments, I think anyone who believes the autoharp is not is probably the same kind of person who thinks that only someone who paints on a canvas is an artist.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching. For years I wondered what that unusual "sparkly" sound was in some old records and folk music recordings. Hearing an Autoharp in person is really great. Phone and PC mics don't do the instrument justice. Thank you for watching!

[@truthteller8459]

A video I came across awhile back about the autoharp that is amazing to watch here on KZbin is titled 'Mother Maybelle Carter Auto Harp solo (1970). You did a very good job yourself young man.

[@HatRatt]

I played the autoharp 63 years ago (I was 11 years old) in the gymnasium of my school for the public annual Christmas presentation. Those days are shot!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Wow, how cool is that! I can't even imagine an Autoharp being played when I was in school.

[@dennismorris7724]

Thank you so much foe overview and demonstration. I think this instrument would be great to learn.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thanks for watching. I've started a video series to help people learn to play autoharp

[@dennismorris7724]

Well, you were right! After watching your video, I kept hearing songs on my CJ’s music channel KZbin that I thought would sound really good on thevAutoharp. So today, I bought an Oscar Schmidt 0S 21C. I’m really excited about getting this into my hands and starting to play.. I think this is going to be a whole Lotta fun. Thank you for introducing me to this instrument. And I hope you have a great 2024.

[@scottishpig]

The idea of doing some irish pub songs on this is really inspiring. I remember hearing a band called the Brobdingnagian Bards... and this made me realize they put played an autoharp and put it to good use. Nice Hotel California, btw. 😎

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for listening. I'll look up the band you mentioned. The auto harp goes well with the Bouzouki, guitar and fiddle with one of my Irish music clubs. 🍻

[@maximiliancostello288]

I know the exact song from them your talking about. This video made me realize what I was hearing too! Was it “Health to the Company”?

[@IMBrute-ir7gz]

Very nice! I picked up a 21-chord Korean-made "Chromaharp" at a pawnshop a couple of months ago and have been watching KZbin autoharp videos ever since. However, almost all of these videos feature the 15-chord types. I was beginning to think I'd bitten off more than I can chew! Keep up the good work!

[@richarddeese1087]

Thanks. I've always wanted an autoharp, but never ran across one. I'm 58, & way back in elementary school, there was a beautiful young lady who came to our school a few times a year. She had an autoharp most of the time. But for Halloween, she would play records & draw with color chalk on the blacboard. tavi.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I'm a bit jealous. Not about being 58, but about hearing and seeing Autoharp in school. I bet that was a great experience.

[@richarddeese1087]

@@MountainHomeJerrel One of my fondest childhood memories. tavi.

[@robertusmaximus1911]

Fantastic overview! I really enjoyed hearing you play. Thank you!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

thank you for watching and enjoying the video. I hope I can share more with you soon.

[@carollizc]

Oh, cool! A beginners guide to the autoharp! I've seen a couple in the pawn shop, reasonably priced. Out of tune, of course, but in good condition. It would be fun to have so.ething else to play when everyone's playing guitar because, well, everyone's playing guitar.im subbing now so i dont miss it!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you! It seems like the Autoharp was built specifically to add real sparkle to an ensemble and compliment guitars. The autoharp really fills in the sound and fits in great in a musical session. I'm working on more guide videos.

[@duaneharnes]

John Mellencamp used one on an album and also in an accompanying video. Can't recall the album right now. It added a cool richness to the sound.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I'll look it up and see if i can find it. Thanks for suggesting.

[@thomaspaul311]

I'm fascinated by folk music instruments. Especially the ones that don't get much respect like the mandolin. Some I don't care for like the mountain dulcimer. It sounded harsh. Liked.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching and commenting. I prefer playing the mandolin for folk music, which is a slower and more expressive style than bleugrass. The mandolins for folk tend to be warmer and have a softer attack.

[@carolnearson7932]

Nickel Creek is a band famous for mandolins. Great stuff.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

@carolnearson7932 I don't know of them. I'll look them up.

[@davidrohlader3498]

Two years ago, my partner asked if i thought she could play an autoharp. We both purchasd harps from d'Aigle and she now plays for at least a half hour each day. She had no musical training, but loves her Desert Rose from d'Aigle.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thanks for sharing that, I'm glad to hear from you. What sort of music does she play? I've seen Hal Weeks talk about the Desert Rose. That's a beautiful instrument!

[@leeperrybender5811]

I have had several autoharps over the years since the mid-1960s. Interesting that I thought I had given my current one to a niece, but just a few days ago, I found it in the basement and am glad for the opportunity to play it. I notice that your autoharp has more chords available than mine. In the past, after noticing that several of my favorite songs required a 7th chord, I rearranged the felts on a bar to give me the chord I wanted. But then, of course, I lost the use of that other chord. Someone should create a snap in system for the bars so that the autoharp is more versatile. Thanks for this video!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Agreed! It would be great if a manufacturer sold a lot with more chord swap in options. This Oscar Schmidt has 21 chords, with plenty of minor and 7th chord. I can play pretty much any song with some exceptions. I recently changed the felt for an E major and Bm. I'm glad you still have an Autoharp to play! They sure are wonderful instruments, aren't they?

[@zanewolf2067]

Was that wish you were here? Love that song

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

You got it. Big Pink Floyd fan here.

[@tanabrown3449]

It’s a beautiful instrument! My third grade teacher, many years ago, used to play for us quite often. Keep it going. 💜

[@davidrohlader3498]

She is playing 3 and 4 chord songs for which she knows the melody and is just enchanted with her Desert Rose. I love to watch her concentrate while she plays and the huge smile when she gets it right.

[@terrylawton4323]

Wow man this is an amazing instrument. I had never heard of or seen one until now. You have really mastered it in just one year. Beautiful rendition of Hotel California 👏❤️ thank you for this great video

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching and commenting. I have so much more to learn, with more advanced tech still out of my grasp. I'm glad you enjoyed Hotel California! I'll share more of my favorite old classic songs played on autoharp in 2024. All the best!

[@Randomjackass135]

Fuck yeah I just saw one on Craigslist and this is my sign. AMAZING technique btw. Your timing is impeccable and the dynamics are 😮‍💨

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thanks so much for watching and enjoying. Let me know if you score that one from Craisglist, but please also check out advice online about which harp configuration to buy. If you want to play this style of accompaniment, I strongly recommend getting a 21 chord harp to have more options.

[@paulacole2422]

I saw one at a yard sale in February and was enthralled and am learning to play. It is grand!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

That's great!! Congratulations! In that case, I'll focus on making more autoharp videos for the next few weeks.

[@Corriethosaurus]

My family got an autoharp recently and we just ordered a tuner for it. I wanted to look up some videos to get a feel for what it is sounded like and holy- after this one I am excited to learn!

[@research6485]

Great playing. Thanks for the video. I recently purchased one of these autoharps from a pawn shop. My Oscar Schmidt autoharp has 36 strings and 15 chords. I am looking forward checking out your videos on learning to play the autoharp.

[@katebloggs8243]

Hotel CA - that was hilarious! And quite beautiful. I don’t hate many things in this world but that song is up near the top of the shortlist, so I was surprised and delighted to find myself really enjoying the song and wanting to hear more. Rock on, zithers, rock on, Jerrel!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Hahaha it is one of the more overly played vintage songs I think, but I still love it. Thank you for enjoying and watching!

[@Iceland874]

Hotel California. My brother performed this song on piano and singing for the California Hotel talent show several times. I’ve been wanting one of these but got a lyre harp, mandolin, and ukulele but haven’t had time to play any of them. Autoharp is nice since you can carry it in a backpack. Thanks for the video.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I bet it sounded great on the piano. This autoharp is a bit heavy but I have seen padded bags. I don't believe they make them with backpack straps but surely with a shoulder strap. I'll do a check and see how it fits in a bag and make a video for you.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I've played guitar, mandolin, etc. Before, but once I got an autoharp it became my most played instrument.

[@Iceland874]

@@MountainHomeJerrel I still need to get one. I have played piano and woodwinds all my life and think it would be great to have one! Thanks.

[@arlaabrell8658]

I had a great aunt who played autoharp and of course had one, she also played piano and mandolin and I think some banjo and guitar too but I mostly remember the autoharp, piano and Mandolin (she died when I was only 9) because those 3 sat together in her living room, the autoharp and mandolin leaned against the wall in the corner by where the piano was. This makes me want to maybe try one again as an adult, she used to let me play around with her autoharp sometimes. I have tried all of the other string instruments and I am hopeless, maybe autoharp will be the one I don't fail miserably at. I play harmonica, sax and some hand drums, music is very deeply ingrained on both sides of my family but I'm one that is NOT in the upper tier so to speak.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thanks for sharing that. It's interesting to hear how music connects us to our families. I hope you can pick up and play autoharp one day. I think people can connect with it even if they have a tough time with other instruments.

[@arlaabrell8658]

🙂Thank you@@MountainHomeJerrel

[@marcbrasse747]

What a great video! I’ve often seen the autoharp mentioned on records sleeves but never came around to looking into it. Now I find out I could have been picking proper chords for years and years. I can play a decent solo on a guitar neck and such but do not have good enough coordination for chords stuff. So this is a bit of an eyeopener. Thanks!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Glad to hear from you! I've been playing guitars since I was a kid, so having picked up Autoharp recently has been a real delight. It is satisfying to play as you will soon find picking patterns and rhythms you don't really have access to on guitar. I hope you can check out and enjoy an Autoharp one day!

[@rgarlinyc]

Wow, beautiful sound indeed! You play really great for someone (as you say) who has not been playing for long!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Really, it's not me doing much. The instrument itself is what sounds so great. Thanks for watching. Happy new year!

[@rgarlinyc]

@@MountainHomeJerrel You're modest, but I value your contribution anyway - after all, it doesn't play itself! 😄 Happy New Year to you too!

[@akselmc01]

The songs were "wish you were here" by Pink Floyd and "Hotel California" by the Eagles, I think

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

+50 points. You got it! Hang on to those points.

[@julietpierson9900]

I have had a desire to learn how to play this instrument for decades. Every couple of years I look into buying one and have not yet found one I liked that i could afford. Perhaps if you make a video series that I can comprehensively follow I will bite the bullet and make that monetary investment. Thanks for reigniting that old flame.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching and sharing the comment. I have 3 videos up to help people get started learning Autoharp, and I am working in more video lessons. I hope they help! I find autoharps for reasonable prices on eBay for very reasonably cheap prices regularly.

[@David-pd8li]

Thats Hotel California by the Eagles. The chords are unmistakable. I play guitar but I play Old Time but it was hard to miss that.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

You got it!

[@dr.zither]

Thank you for sharing this! This is a great instrument to let loose and have fun playing music. I found a chromaharp in great condition at a second hand store and it has given me many hours of musical joy. I look forward to seeing more videos on this!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching! I'm so glad you found one! I'm working on videos for tips and techniques so I hope you'll look forward to them. Happy New Year!!

[@BaritoneUkeBeast4Life]

Wow, that is a really cool musical instrument in both sound and looks. I really like it's voice and your playing. I agree with you and @dumbgumegg who commented below, that of course the Autoharp is a real instrument. What I find even more ridiculous is that people say it's not a real instrument because it has buttons you press to play chords and notes? I guess none of them have ever heard of an accordion or a piano before, which are recognized the world over as real instruments. The piano functions in much the same way as an Autoharp and the piano keys are like buttons that strike the strings of the piano to generate sound. The Autoharp reminds me of a portable piano. I just started learning music 11 months ago and I have been taking online courses and practicing a little piano, and a lot of guitar, baritone Ukulele, Native American Flute, and Irish Tin Whistle. I love all of my instruments and play them for hours each day. I look forward to all of your future Autoharp videos!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching and sharing your musical journey so far. That sounds like a great collection so far. You can look forward to collecting more and more instruments. Good to hear your thoughts on instruments and music too. I haven't played a native American flute before but is love to get the chance someday. Cheers!

[@kalimunda77]

Hotel California I was able to get and it really sounded beautiful.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for listening and enjoying!

[@Bagpipe13]

Yes, very interesting to me, many thanks for posting, a very eloquent presentation 🎼🙏🏼🏔❤️

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching. Happy new year!

[@synchro505]

You've really got the knack for playing this instrument. I'm guessing you are proficient on several instruments. It's great how you can go up and down across all the strings for the different chord inversions. We had autoharps when I was a kid in school and they were quite popular.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for that! I would have loved to play these in school when I was growing up in the 90s. Happy New Year!

[@el_chief_dannyboy]

When I was growing up in the 2010s and getting more exposed to 60s tunes, I once saw a video of John Sebastian playing one and I’ve wanted one ever since.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

There's so much great music from that era. If you don't have an autoharp yet, now's a great time to pick one up. I'm creating new videos to offer tips and techniques for the Autoharp.

[@Arahansannihilation]

I'm impressed. Can't believe people still chasing sounds. Just use it as a standalone on camping trips and such.

[@rodterrell304]

Nice job, Hotel California, Had not thought about this instrument since elementary school. Brings back memories. It is a musical instrument for sure.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

@@rodterrell304 thank you, matey. Glad to share a bit of nostalgia with you.

[@Jungleland422]

3:48 He looks so happy in these few moments. You can see him in a state of happiness and calm.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

There's nothing else like sharing music with other people. It's really special.

[@franksiegle7823]

THank you. You're quite good. I was in a Celtic folk singing group for a number of years and I used mine as strictly an acompaniment. I never got adept enought to solo. I thought of getting a 21 chord instrument in order to be more versatile, but I was concerned because of the thinness of the chord bars and mainly getting enough skill to handle the additional chords.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I'd like to play with a Celtic music club but they are a bit far from my house. Playing a 21 chord versus a 15 is not really any more difficult. It only took me about a week to get used to it. The thinness of the chord bars doesn't feel any different than a 15 chord autoharp. Thanks for watching!

[@Lurker1979]

I had a lot of music teachers in elementary school who used these.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I'm a bit envious. I would have loved to play this in school as a kid.

[@odettehokemeir4425]

You are totally talented Jerrell!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you thank you. I will share more with you very soon with my next videos. Happy holidays and best wishes to you!

[@victorbourdon2815]

Wow, I’m very impressed, I would love to see a tutorial on getting started. I’ve played a number of instruments over these many years and this would be one more very enjoyable achievement. Thanks so much for sharing.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching! I just started a series on this channel to help people learn the Autoharp. I'm working on more videos as well. kzbin.info/aero/PLLiqLEnxFlqLcZDSKKBvUyF21MhNhIAnN&si=zKO-SnK1xGw9NYTv

[@kuni579]

Never knew about autoharp... Lithophone is an instrument made of lithos i.e. stones, noone says it isn't an instrument because... Voila... It makes sounds, it makes music... So does autoharp, and its beautiful... Its rich melodic sound had me hooked up and I seeked more vids on it to watch... Autoharp is indeed a valid instrument and very euphonius and ear-soothing...

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I'll look up lithopone. Never heard of it. I have plenty more Zithers to share with you. I'm working on repairs.

[@kuni579]

@@MountainHomeJerrel no problemo... Subbed!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

@kuni579 Thank you!

[@ericsoucie2865]

Bohemian Rasphody, nice. I listened to that song when reading a book and it just feels like it gooes with that book.

[@cajsheen2594]

I have a beautiful d'Aigle Sparrow. I had it sent to me here in the UK. I was just getting the hang of it and had a bad fall, this was just before lockdown. I mangled up my hands quite badly and have a severed tendon in the thumb. Bang goes my ability to play it, what with other issues. I still have it, it's a lovely instrument. ❤ XXX

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Oh no! I'm sorry to hear your hand was injured. I hope it isn't causing you any real trouble. Thank you for watching.

[@MaryDeanDotCom]

I bought one 30 years ago - never managed to tune it up - so many strings! I hope you will have a lesson on that topic. I’m sure it’s easier now with smartphone tuners.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thanks for watching! I'll do a lesson video on tuning. These days I use Pro Guitar Tuner on the phone to tune and it works great.

[@caroltaylor4282]

You play beautifully! So knowledgeable! Thank you for sharing and inspiring! I have a 15 cord autoharp. I’m considering retuning a few strings on my auto harp to gain more playability in the key of C

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you for watching my video. I'm glad to hear from you. What kind of Autoharp do you have? I hope I can make videos that will be helpful. There is still so much for me to learn when it comes to Autoharp.

[@KC-hr2yl]

Hotel California!! New to this instrument. Learning. Look forward to your starting up on the autoharp videos. Thanks!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

@@KC-hr2yl nice one! You got it. Thanks for watching. I'll get to regular new uploads for Autoharp.

[@KC-hr2yl]

@@MountainHomeJerrel Just purchased a used one, and am looking forward to learning. Found your video, and really enjoyed it.

[@David-pd8li]

I've heard that tune but I've never played it and I can't remember what it was called but it wasn't Johnny Buggers. It was something else if it was the same one. The biggest thing was that the tune I think (pretty sure) it is had an "extra A part". Also, the person played it on the fiddle, and not on the banjo. I'd call him up in West Virginia but he's not living anymore so I can't ask him. His name was Melvin Wine and he sort of specialized in tunes like this one. He rifired to them as "crooked tunes". I'm a fiddler, myself. He showed me a number of them. You sound great! You're really smooth. And that's a nice sounding banjo, too. Keep going! Do more videos!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

I really appreciate that, thank you. I'll play more music and share more interesting instruments I've got in my studio. Thank you, I'm glad to hear from you. Cheers!

[@nfernandez11163]

Yes!!!! Eagles Hotel California. Love it.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Me too.

[@davidrohlader3498]

I rescued an Oscar Schmidt B series autoharp made in 3/76. It was a 15 bar, and was made here in the US, unlike the current ones made in Asia. The tone on mine is much sweeter and louder than the current ones. I'm now converting it to 21 bars withe the Brian Bowers bar setup with majors in the middle, minors in the row above and sevenths in the bottom row, just like my d'Aigle lap style harp. This OSB will have to be played in the customary vertical position.

[@barbarajhagan8186]

I own a Guitaro from the early 60's . I havent played it yet. I need some help. Im looking forward to viewing your videos. Glad I discovered you.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Oh wow! That's so great! Those are wonderfully quirky and rare. Right up my alley! I have other interesting zithers to share. Thank you for stopping by. I'll make more interesting videos for you soon.

[@darkinertia2]

whoa crazy i just saw an autoharp at a music store while looking at the guitars, wanted to look it up and found you....which is crazy because i saw your concord vids a week ago lol

[@GingerSnape46]

I remember my first grade music teacher used to play one. He'd play, and us little first graders would sing Michael Row Your Boat Ashore and others.

[@22ebbie]

Loved your rendition of Hotel California!! I’m wanting to get an autoharp. Thanks for sharing this!

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

Thank you so much for watching. I do have a couple videos up to help people learn Autoharp and I have more coming soon.

[@22ebbie]

Great!! I just purchased an autoharp!! I’ll be watching for your videos.

[@MountainHomeJerrel]

That's fantastic! I hope you really enjoy playing that Autoharp and sharing music with people.