kat....just a couple of thoughts ....I started playing guitar #####years ago on a four string harmony (not sure if that's a "tenor guitar")...but it allowed INSTANT music. The G was one finger, G7 one finger, and C two fingers....and thousands of songs immediately!! Re: other stringed instruments...I seem to have, over the years, fallen into a pattern of....Dulcimer when I want to be peaceful and simplify; Autoharp when I need a hug; Guitar for any occasion; Mandolin when I just want to "diddle"; and Fiddle when I'm alone and no-one can hear the screeching!! (Just learning) Night Owl