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Psaltery
01
psaltérion
a stringed musical instrument featuring a flat wooden soundboard with strings stretched across it, traditionally played by plucking or striking the strings
What is a "psaltery"?
A psaltery is an ancient stringed instrument that consists of a flat, wooden soundboard with strings stretched across it. The strings are either plucked with the fingers or a plectrum, or sometimes played with a bow. The psaltery can have different shapes, including triangular, rectangular, or trapezoidal, and it produces a clear, resonant sound. It was widely used in medieval and Renaissance music, often to accompany singing or other instruments. The psaltery is considered a precursor to the harpsichord and zither, and its simple yet melodic tones make it a distinctive part of early music traditions.
Exemple
In medieval Europe, the psaltery was a popular instrument often played by minstrels and troubadours in the royal courts.
The sound of the psaltery echoed through the cathedral, filling the sacred space with heavenly music during the religious ceremony.
The musician skillfully plucked the strings of the psaltery, producing a beautiful melody that captivated the audience.
The ancient psaltery, with its delicate strings and haunting melody, evoked a sense of serenity and tranquility.
With its origins dating back to antiquity, the psaltery has been an integral part of musical traditions in various cultures around the world.