What Is a Cutaway Acoustic Guitar? Definition & Benefits

Cutaway acoustic guitar is an acoustic instrument whose body includes a scooped‑out section near the neck joint, permitting the player to reach higher frets more comfortably while retaining the resonant qualities of a full‑size acoustic soundboard.

Etymology / Origin

The word “cutaway” derives from the visual metaphor of “cutting away” a portion of the guitar’s bout. Early acoustic cutaways appeared in the 1930s as luthiers adapted the design popularized on electric archtop guitars to improve player ergonomics without sacrificing acoustic volume. Notable early models include the Gibson J‑45 Cutaway (1939) and Martin 0‑15E (1940s).

How It Works

Acoustically, the soundboard and soundhole remain the primary radiators of vibration. The cutaway removes wood from the lower bout, which slightly reduces overall volume but does not significantly alter the fundamental resonances because the majority of the vibrating surface area stays intact. Luthiers compensate by reinforcing the brace pattern and often using scalloped bracing to preserve tonal balance. In charity benefit concerts, the ergonomic advantage enables performers to execute intricate fingerstyle passages that engage audiences while maintaining projection in large venues.

Playing a Cutaway Acoustic Guitar

Notation & Diagrams

Below is a simple chord diagram illustrating a typical open‑position G major shape, which demonstrates how the cutaway does not affect standard chord voicings.

Step‑by‑Step / How to Play

1. Position the guitar so the cutaway side faces you; this gives a clear line of sight to frets 12–15.
2. Practice the scale pattern from the 12th fret, using the cutaway to avoid hand obstruction.
3. Integrate fingerstyle arpeggios on higher chords, taking advantage of the unobstructed access.
4. Test dynamic range in a rehearsal space to ensure the cutaway has not thinned the low‑end response.
5. For live charity performances, experiment with a slight boost in the mid‑range on the PA to balance the natural acoustic output.

Common Variations

• Single‑cutaway (usually on the lower bout only).
• Double‑cutaway (both upper and lower bouts trimmed for maximum upper‑fret access).
• Partial‑cutaway (a modest scoop that retains more body mass for richer bass response).
• Travel‑cutaway (compact body with cutaway, designed for portability in outreach events).

Common Mistakes

• Assuming the cutaway will automatically increase volume; it often slightly reduces low‑frequency output.
• Neglecting brace reinforcement, leading to a “floppy” top that compromises sustain.
• Using a cutaway model with a thin top for heavy strumming, which can cause unwanted buzzing.
• Failing to adjust playing technique—some players over‑reach, causing hand fatigue.

Notable Examples in Songs

• “We Are the World” – USA for Africa (acoustic guitar foundation)
• “Give a Little Bit” – Supergrass (acoustic benefit rendition)
• “Tears in Heaven” – Eric Clapton (charity acoustic performance)
• “Imagine” – Various Artists (acoustic charity concerts)
• “One Love” – Bob Marley & The Wailers (acoustic charity version)
• “The Prayer” – Celine Dion & Andrea Bocelli (acoustic charity arrangement)