The Southern Appalachia type of old time music is the most recognized. It relies strongly on the fiddle, which is a European influence, as well as the banjo, which is an African influence. The dulcimer is also used to make this music style. The Southern Appalachia style is used for dance music with its quick beats and catchy tunes, but is not largely popular.
The Midwest old time music style has more European influences and almost no African. This is the music you can expect to find at polkas or at Scandinavian gatherings. The fiddle takes the lead role in the Midwest style and the bowing for the fiddle is typically very strong. The acoustic guitar and banjo also have roles, but tend to take a back seat.
The New England style of old time music is not nearly as well known as the Midwest or the Southern Appalachia. This style of music has European roots, with Celtic influences. Unlike the Midwest and the Southern Appalachia, this style of old time music features piano playing, as well as flutes. The fiddle is still the leading instrument. This style of music is also used for dances.
The even lesser known styles of old time music include Canada and Texas. The fiddle still plays the dominant role in Texas old time music, followed by the dulcimer. Guitars and bass are also used. Gatherings dedicated to this music are still held in the state. The Canada old time music also has strong fiddle playing, but also strong accordion playing and is associated with traditional dancing. A strong difference of this style from others is the presence of written music. The other styles strongly support memorization and improvisation.