Cittern

The modern Cittern is generally understood to be a 10 string instrument with a large body and a mid range scale length although there can be many variations around this theme. The Cittern that I build has a scale length of 580mm and is built around the large body format I also use for the bouzoukis. It is a very versatile instrument and is equally suited to melody, rhythm or accompaniment. Tonal characteristics are similar to the Large Body Bouzouki with a full and rich tone, excellent sustain and projection.

Standard tunings:
Cittern – GCGCG / GDADA / ADGAD / ADADA

Standard Specification
Top - European spruce
Back and sides - Indian rosewood
Neck - Brazilian mahogany
Fingerboard - ebony
Bridge – ebony
Saddle & nut - bone
Machine heads - gold-plated Gotoh
Tailpiece - solid brass
Adjustable truss rod

Mandolins, Mandolas, Bouzoukis, Citterns