Abigail Lewis
Abigail grew up on the folk and acoustic nights of the North West, and Lancaster's small, loyal scene taught her the value of songs handed down and played live. She writes about acoustic music, folk and singer-songwriters.
The Best Mandolins for the Money
From learner instruments to professional-grade choices, the mandolin market has strong options at every level. These picks deliver the most for their price.
Mandolin Explained: Features, Types and Tips
Eight strings, a violin's tuning and a tone that carries across any session room — the mandolin is a remarkable acoustic instrument with a rich history and a wide musical life.
How to Set Up and Use Autoharp
A new autoharp deserves half an hour of unhurried attention before you play a note in earnest. Here's the proper step-by-step setup, start to finish.
How to Set Up and Use Bass Ukulele
Getting the best from your instrument starts with the right setup. This guide covers everything from string fitting and tuning to amplification settings, playing position and how to keep the instrumen...
Everything You Need to Know About Makala Ukulele
The Makala ukulele is Kala's entry-level range and one of the most consistently recommended instruments for beginners. Here is everything you need to know about it.
How to Set Up and Use Soprano Ukulele
New strings that won't hold pitch, chords that buzz, and a strumming arm that's not sure what to do — this guide sorts the common early problems.
The Best Hang Music Instruments for the Money
There's no single best handpan — only the right tier for your experience, patience for a waiting list, and the playing style you actually want.
What Abigail Lewis covers
Accordion
The accordion is a versatile folk instrument with rich tone, expressive bellows and many layouts for traditional and mod...
2 topics
Bagpipes
Bagpipes are powerful traditional instruments with strong regional identities, used across Scottish, Irish and wider fol...
Didgeridoo
Resonant Australian drone instrument with powerful sustained tone, circular breathing and distinctive rhythmic effects.
1 topic
Fiddle
Choose a fiddle for folk, traditional and acoustic playing, with lively response and comfortable handling.
3 topics
Kalimba
Kalimba instruments are compact thumb pianos with a soft, melodic tone, ideal for beginners and atmospheric playing.
2 topics
Mandolin
Mandolin instruments deliver a bright, ringing tone with strong folk and acoustic appeal across many styles.
2 topics
Ocarina
Compact vessel flute with a clear, haunting tone and simple, portable appeal.
Ukulele
Popular portable instrument with a bright sound and several sizes for folk and acoustic playing.
14 topics
