The bouzouki first became popular in Irish music in the 1970s. The so called Irish bouzouki is an adaptation of the much older original Greek stringinstrument. The three main differences between the Irish bouzouki and Greek bouzouki lie in the shape of the body, the length of the fingerboard and the tuning of the strings.
Greek bouzoukis feature the typical rounded back, and are typically slightly larger instruments with a longer scale length of approximately 27 frets. The Irish bouzouki features a shallow, flat back which some find easier to hold and rest on their knee. Irish bouzoukis typically feature a shorter scale length of approximately 24 frets.
Irish bouzouki pairs are tuned in unison to GDAE or GDAD. This tuning lends itself well to accompanying traditional Irish music.
More Information for Irish Bouzouki Players:
The Best Beginner Tunes for Banjo, Bouzouki & Mandolin
The Best Irish Ballads for Bouzouki & Mandolin
“I’ve had my premium electro bouzouki now for a few weeks and I couldn’t be happier. It has a beautiful sound, is easy to play and the craftsmanship is excellent. I love it!” - Don DiCicco