Custom Built Citterns
The Cittern is a stringed instrument originating from the Renaissance period, and is often categorized in the mandolin family. It is a ten-string version of the Irish Bouzouki, with the extra course of strings allowing for more tuning options. Many Cittern players generally use open tuning, which gives this beautiful acoustic instrument a very full and rich tonal quality.
When constructing hand crafted Citterns, Bob is very careful to select the type of wood that will best suit the tonal quality of the instrument. On Citterns, Bob likes to use Redwood soundboards, which produce a very clear piano or bell-like tone, with a fast response. This makes the custom Cittern a superior solo stringed instrument. Cedar also works well, giving the Cittern a warmer, more open tone.
Arch top models are available on a custom order basis only.
Overall Length |
Overall Width |
Body Depth |
Body Length |
Nut Width |
Width at Body Joint |
Scale Length |
36 1/2" |
14 1/4" |
4 1/8" |
16" |
1 11/16" |
2 1/8" |
23 1/2" |
Specifications subject to change without notice. A larger body version is available on request.
Suggested Tunings: GDGDG, GDAEA, GDADA, ADADA, GCGCG, CGDAE.
If you would like to talk to Luthier Bob Gernandt about building a custom Cittern just for you, call 828-488-1144 or contact us by email here.
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