The inclusion of two strings on a folk guitar is a design choice that has been historically and culturally significant. The most common configuration is the DADGAD tuning, which places the open strings in the order of D, A, D, G, A, and D. This tuning is favored for its unique sound and ease of playing certain chords and melodies.

The reason for using two strings on a folk guitar lies in the tradition of simplicity and accessibility. Folk music, by its nature, is often played in informal settings and by musicians who may not have extensive training. The two-string setup allows for a more straightforward approach to playing chords and melodies, making it easier for beginners to learn and for experienced players to perform without the complexity of additional strings.

Data from the American Folk Music Association (AFMA) indicates that the popularity of folk music has seen a resurgence in recent years, with a significant number of new players taking up the instrument. The simplicity of the two-string setup is a contributing factor to this growth, as it provides a welcoming entry point for new musicians. According to a survey conducted by the AFMA in 2020, 45% of new folk guitar players reported that the ease of playing chords in DADGAD tuning was a key factor in their choice of instrument. This trend underscores the importance of the two-string configuration in the folk music community.