The ancient stringed instruments called psalteries were a form of harp originally plucked with the fingers. Although today most models are played with a bow, we can see the original type in art from ancient times. The Renaissance saw the rise of many more complicated instruments, but the psaltery never disappeared altogether from the musical scene. It's supposed to be the easiest of all devices to play, even for someone totally untrained in music.
The name is unfamiliar to many, and others may think it refers to a collection of psalms, which are hymns of praise. It does not; the proper term for a book of hymns meant to be accompanied by harp music is a psalter. The connection is shown in the word used for these hymns: psalms.
Many different versions of this lap harp are found in European medieval paintings, illustrations in manuscripts, and sculpture. The Renaissance saw the rise of sophisticated music and instruments like the harpsichord, and the psaltery went out of fashion.
In the beginning, these were simply boards with gut strings stretched along them. Later, hollow boxes, or sounding boards, were used. Holes in the board gave more depth to the sound, and metal strings were introduced. It was meant to be held in the lap or suspended from a strap around the neck. Larger models could be laid upon a table for playing. Many shapes and sizes were made by players across Europe.
Today most of the ones used are played with a bow rather than with the fingers. Supposedly a novice with musical training can play actual tunes almost at once, while even those with little aptitude can 'master' the instrument in a matter of hours. Even if you consider yourself musically challenged, the makers of the psaltery say that you can play it successfully.
The bowed psaltery is triangular in shape, with variations on the basic design. There will be twenty or more strings in most models. There are 'natural notes' as well as sharps and flats, with more nuances from the spaces between the pegs that hold the strings in place. Although this may sound complicated, it's supposed to be the easiest of all music making tools to master. The bow is usually sold separately.
There is a lot of history online, as well as examples of ancient and modern harps of this kind. You'll see a wide range of shape, size, and number of strings. There are models for both adults and children on today's market. Artisans hand craft them out of carefully selected wood, making one of a kind treasures, and mass marketers also offer them. For bargains, look on auction sites where you can make a bid.
Psalteries are examples of living history, testifying to mankind's long desire to make music. Prices range from under a hundred dollars for a learner's model to several hundreds, depending on the source and the quality of the instrument. It's enticing to think that the whole family can learn to play by numbers and give their music a personal touch as their 'ear' develops. For a combined history and music lesson, think about one of these harps with a long heritage.
The name is unfamiliar to many, and others may think it refers to a collection of psalms, which are hymns of praise. It does not; the proper term for a book of hymns meant to be accompanied by harp music is a psalter. The connection is shown in the word used for these hymns: psalms.
Many different versions of this lap harp are found in European medieval paintings, illustrations in manuscripts, and sculpture. The Renaissance saw the rise of sophisticated music and instruments like the harpsichord, and the psaltery went out of fashion.
In the beginning, these were simply boards with gut strings stretched along them. Later, hollow boxes, or sounding boards, were used. Holes in the board gave more depth to the sound, and metal strings were introduced. It was meant to be held in the lap or suspended from a strap around the neck. Larger models could be laid upon a table for playing. Many shapes and sizes were made by players across Europe.
Today most of the ones used are played with a bow rather than with the fingers. Supposedly a novice with musical training can play actual tunes almost at once, while even those with little aptitude can 'master' the instrument in a matter of hours. Even if you consider yourself musically challenged, the makers of the psaltery say that you can play it successfully.
The bowed psaltery is triangular in shape, with variations on the basic design. There will be twenty or more strings in most models. There are 'natural notes' as well as sharps and flats, with more nuances from the spaces between the pegs that hold the strings in place. Although this may sound complicated, it's supposed to be the easiest of all music making tools to master. The bow is usually sold separately.
There is a lot of history online, as well as examples of ancient and modern harps of this kind. You'll see a wide range of shape, size, and number of strings. There are models for both adults and children on today's market. Artisans hand craft them out of carefully selected wood, making one of a kind treasures, and mass marketers also offer them. For bargains, look on auction sites where you can make a bid.
Psalteries are examples of living history, testifying to mankind's long desire to make music. Prices range from under a hundred dollars for a learner's model to several hundreds, depending on the source and the quality of the instrument. It's enticing to think that the whole family can learn to play by numbers and give their music a personal touch as their 'ear' develops. For a combined history and music lesson, think about one of these harps with a long heritage.
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