"THE 12-STRING ACOUSTIC GUITAR IN CELTIC MUSIC"

What does The Mighty Ship now have in common with The Waterboys’ Mike Scott, Ryans Fancy’s Fergus O’Byrne, The Irish Rovers’ Ian Millar, and Stan Rogers? Well, if you’ve read this post's headline and seen the image below, you’ve probably deduced that the common factor is the 12-string acoustic guitar. Yes, I’ve dipped my toe into the 12-string waters, but why would I do such a thing? Read on to find out.

Photo Credit: empiremusic.com/products/gibson-j-45-standard-12-string-vintage-sunburst-53302

Naturally, the 12 string, in either its acoustic or electric forms, can be found in other genres and is therefore not exclusive to Celtic music.  It has been used with great effect, particularly in the ‘60s and ‘70s, in the folk and rock genres by legends such as Gordon Lightfoot, George Harrison, Tom Petty, David Gilmour, Roger McGuinn, Johnny Marr, and Jimmy Page to name but a few, but what makes the 12-string so special in Celtic music?

Before answering, for those who don't know, let’s briefly explain what a 12-string is and how it works. As the name suggests, it is a guitar with 12 strings. That much seems obvious. But for those who may not realize, its secret weapon is how it’s strung. The first 2 strings are paired in unison and tuned to the same pitch, which means that in E standard tuning, there are two high E and B strings. Strings 3 through 6 are paired with another string of the same note, but an octave higher. The result, according to an AI overview from google.com is, “a fuller sound and a subtle chorus effect when played, which is desirable in Celtic music”.

As Celtic musicians, why would we want this?  According to the same source, there are many reasons, which include: 1) the production of a “shimmering sound, often described as a ‘choral’ or ‘bell-like’ effect”, which "offers a richer and more textured sound”, 2) “it’s well-suited for providing rhythmic and harmonic accompaniment in Celtic music”, and, 3) it enhances “the guitar’s characteristic sound and its ability to create lush harmonies.” There is something special about how a 12-string sounds, either finger-picked or strummed, when playing Celtic music in keys like D, G, and A, in standard and alternate tunings like DADGAD. As a one-man band, I’m always looking for new sounds and ways to sound bigger and more impressive. As a lifelong learner, I constantly strive to learn new things so the challenge a 12-string offers is right up my alley.

With all of these great reasons to play a 12-string, why doesn't everybody play them? Well, the cost of another guitar is always an issue…especially depending on how much one would use it. Space may be an issue at home or if you choose to pack it for a gig. More strings equal more cost and another guitar means more maintenance. The wider nut may also be uncomfortable for some. All of these potential cons were negated when I bought a used, entry-level Taylor 150 E (Walnut) from Long and McQuade for 799$ before tax, so not a bank-breaker. I preferred the sound of the walnut over the sapele (Taylor switched these tone woods in 2017) from clips that I heard on YouTube. I frequently take 2-3 guitars to a gig (1 in E standard tuning, 1 in Eb standard, and perhaps a spare in case of a broken string) anyway, so no change in space requirements there. The neck is very comfortable and playable so I’m finding it easier to acclimate to than I thought. It has an active pickup system, which I’m not overly keen on as I use passive K & K pickups in all of my guitars, but for the few tunes I’d use if for, that’s OK. I'd suggest it if anyone is looking to try 12-string, but on a budget.

UPDATE: I wasn't happy with the plugged-in sound of the Taylor expression system. I used the guitar to record my cover of Fisherman's Blues by The Waterboys (listen here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uCeBvfUFpJ4). It's fine for acoustic playing and recording, but I didn't like its electrified tone so today I bought a used "lawsuit era" Takamine F400 that I plan to throw a K&K into should I opt to use it for live gigs.

What are your thoughts on 12-string guitar for Celtic music? Are you a 12-string player? If so, chime in (pun intended) and offer your thoughts below.  

Sláinte!