Category: Instruments

Instruments

Santoor Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 29, 2015

Santoor Facts

The santoor is an ancient stringed instrument, a hammered dulcimer with origins in Mesopotamia. The Persian santur is played with a pair of lightweight wooden mallets that are held between the thumb, index, and middle fingers. The instrument is delicate and sensitive and produces an exotic sound.

Similar string instruments have been present since medieval times. The Indian santoor is wider and more rectangular with a higher number of strings. The mallets, or hammers, are held and played with a different technique.

The Chinese yangqin and the Greek santouri also derived from the Persian santur. The cimbalom, a larger Eastern European version of the santur, is used as an accompanying instrument in gypsy music. In many countries including the United States, the instrument is called a hammered dulcimer.

Kashmiri Santoor

Made for Musician’s Mall in Kashmir

More Santoor Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a santoorist. Notable santoorists include Tarun Bhattacharya, Rijram Desad, Aryan Ezoji, Hossein Farjami, Varada Khadilkar, Parviz Meshkatian, Abhay Sopori, Bhajan Sopori, Rahul Sharma, Shivkumar Sharma, R. Visweswaran, and Satish Vyas.

Arnold Van Westerhout

High Quality Vintage Art Reproduction

Dulcimer by Arnold Van Westerhout (1723)

Composer and Teacher Parviz Meshkatian

Iranian musician and composer Parviz Meshkatian studied at the Tehran Academy of Arts, where he was introduced to radif, the Persian classical music repertoire. He produced some of the most beautiful recordings of contemporary Persian traditional music, collaborating with Mohammad-Reza Shajarian, a highly respected master of traditional Persian music. Meshkatian toured Europe and Asia, performing on the santur (santoor) and the setar (a member of the lute family). An avid researcher, Meshkatian went on to teach music at Tehran University.

Santoor Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans, including unique gifts for your favorite santoor player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our Santoor Shirts and Gifts collection.

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Quality Persian Santoor

Product details:

Walnut wood body
Brass, steel strings
Pair of hammers
Hard carrying case
Extra set of strings
Tuning wrench

Persian Quality Santoor Santur Dulcimer String Musical Instrument Comes with Hard Case, Extra Set of Strings, Two Hammers, and Tuning Wrench

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Santoor Shirts and Gifts

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Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. This means that–at zero cost to you–we will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

Learning Book For Persian Santoor – Santur, Dulcimer – ABS-310 – Language is Farsi Mezrab for Santoor – Santor, Santour, Santur – High Quality – Ships from USA Persian Santoor Strings – Santor, Santour, Santur – 43 Yards – High Quality – Red Teeburon I Love Santoor Colorful Hearts T-Shirt – 100% High Quality Cotton – Black

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Musician’s Mall – Berkeley, California

Kaleidoscope Mandala image by JuliusH

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Psaltery Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 29, 2015

Psaltery Facts

The psaltery dates back to 12th century Europe, with roots tracing to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. It’s mentioned in biblical texts, associated with worship and praise, as in the Book of Psalms (hence the name).

It typically has a flat, triangular, or trapezoidal wooden soundboard with metal or gut strings stretched across. The strings are plucked with fingers, quills, or plectra, producing a delicate, harp-like sound. Modern versions, like the bowed psaltery (played with a bow), were developed to create a violin-like sound.

During the Middle Ages, psalteries were widely used in European courts and religious settings. They were portable and relatively easy to play, making them a favorite among minstrels and nobility.

The American folk music revival, from the 1940s through the 1960s, generated renewed interest in traditional music. Popular musicians like Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie, Joan Baez, and Bob Dylan often incorporated obscure or historical instruments to evoke a sense of cultural heritage. The psaltery, with its ancient roots and delicate tone, fit this ethos perfectly. This revival cemented the psaltery’s place in modern folk music, particularly the bowed version.

Psaltery Player in Ancient Greece

More Psaltery Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a psalterist. Notable psalterists include Maureen Barnes, Dona Benkert, Satis Coleman, James Jones, Rick Long, Lowell Mason, Eric Meier, James Mellen, Donna Missigman, Celeste Howard Ray, Gregg Schneeman, Peter Tommerup, Ann Tucker, George James Webb, Honey Smith Walls, and Tish Westman.

Religious Symbolism
The psaltery frequently appears in Christian art, symbolizing divine harmony and praise. It’s commonly shown in the hands of King David, angels, or other holy figures, rooted in a biblical association with the Book of Psalms. The psaltery’s frequent portrayal in medieval art underscores its cultural and spiritual importance, bridging sacred and secular realms.

Strangeling Angel with a Psaltery

Jasmine Becket Griffith

Strangeling Angel with a Psaltery 11×14 Unframed Fantasy Print Poster

Master Instrument Maker James Jones

James Jones has been building custom musical instruments in his rural Bedford, Virginia shop since 1978. He produces an entire line of fine string instruments, including bouzoukis, hammered dulcimers, Appalachian dulcimers, harps, mandolins, zithers—and of course, psalteries. This introduction to the instrument is played on one of his 2-1/2 octave alto bowed psalteries.

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Cherry Wood Bowed Psaltery with 22 Strings

Product details:

Made of Cherry with a book matched Cherry top and sides
This is a big instrument, 21.5 inches long
Starts on G4 ends on F6
G4 strings vibrating length is 17.250 long
Comes tuned (may need minor tuning after shipping)
Easy to play, made in the USA
Perfect beginner instrument for all ages
Includes bow, rosin, tuning wrench, fleece draw string bag, string chart w/note lay out and stick on note letters

Cherry Wood Bowed Psaltery with 22 Strings

Baltic Psalteries

Since 2012 Baltic Psalteries has manufactured more than 2,000 unique handcrafted instruments. Sharing music is a passion—more than 200 psalteries have been donated to orphanages, music institutions, and large families.

Baltic Psalteries
Our psalteries are designed for both professional musicians as well as people with no special musical education. We have had some fabulous reviews from folk groups and famous musicians.

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Psaltery Shirts and Gifts Collection

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Roosebeck Baritone Psaltery Strings RBSPSB – Set of 37 – Phosphor Bronze – String Gauge .012 Roosebeck Psaltery Bow – Mongolian Horse Hair – Solid Walnut Wood – Very Light – Easy to Play D’Addario Violin Rosin – Natural Light – For Violin, Viola, Cello – Made with All-Natural Ingredients Teeburon I Love Psaltery Colorful Hearts Women’s T-Shirt – 100% High Quality Cotton – Black

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Psaltery Player in Ancient Greece image by GDJ

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Piano Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 24, 2015

Piano Facts

The piano, a versatile and iconic musical instrument, has a rich history. Italian harpsichord maker Bartolomeo Cristofori is credited with inventing the piano in Florence in the early 1700s. His “gravicembalo col piano e forte” (harpsichord with soft and loud) was revolutionary because it allowed dynamic control. Players could vary volume by touch, unlike the harpsichord’s fixed volume.

Cristofori developed the piano by replacing the harpsichord’s plucking mechanism with hammers that struck strings, allowing nuanced dynamics. His design included a hammer-and-escapement mechanism, a check to prevent hammers from bouncing, and a rudimentary damper system, laying the foundation for modern pianos.

Only three Cristofori pianos exist today (1720, 1722, 1726). His earliest surviving piano is in New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Many improvements have been made over the past three centuries, yet the modern instrument remains true to Cristofori’s original designs.

There has never been a better time to acquire and learn to play the piano. Not every home has the space or budget for a grand or upright model, but there are many other options. Digital pianos and keyboards are extremely popular and affordable.

Pretty Woman Playing Grand Piano

More Piano Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a pianist. Here’s a curated list of notable contemporary pianists. These players stand out for their technical skill, influence, and contributions to music, with a focus on those shaping today’s scene: Martha Argerich (Argentina), Jon Batiste (USA), Khatia Buniatishvili (Georgia), DOMi (Domitille Degalle, France), Nils Frahm (Germany), Tigran Hamasyan (Armenia), Seong-Jin Cho (South Korea), Elton John (UK), Alicia Keys (USA), Lang Lang (China), Yunchan Lim (South Korea), Brad Mehldau (USA), Víkingur Ólafsson (Iceland), Hayato Sumino (Japan), Daniil Trifonov (Russia), Hiromi Uehara (Japan), Yuja Wang (China), and Yiruma (South Korea).

Pioneering Digital Pianos
Yamaha’s Clavinova was the first digital piano to replicate the sound and feel of an acoustic piano, earning it a place on TIME magazine’s list of the 50 most influential gadgets of the last 50 years. Its debut model, the YP-40, made pianos more accessible with lower costs, no tuning requirements, and features like headphone jacks for silent practice.

Piano Scales & Keyboard Chart

Full-Color Piano Chords Poster

Piano Chords Chart – Keyboard Note Chart Full-Color Piano Chords Poster 24×36

Don Grusin & Friends

Celebrated songwriter, producer, and keyboardist Don Grusin performs “Catwalk,” from the album The Hang. Joining him are Alex Acuña (drums), Charlie Bisharat (violin), Abraham LaBoriel (bass), and Sadao Watanabe (alto saxophone).

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RockJam 61-Key Electronic Keyboard Package

Product details:

True full-size 61-key keyboard piano with standard key sizes
LCD screen, record and playback functionality
100 keyboard sounds, 100 rhythms, 50 demo songs
Strong, adjustable stand designed to hold keyboard securely
Padded stool is comfortable for pianists of all ages
LCD display shows correct keys to press for demo songs
Power supply for home, backup uses six size D batteries
High quality, over-ear headphones for quiet play
Free Piano Course for Simply Piano by JoyTunes!

RockJam Full-Size 61-Key Electronic Keyboard SuperKit Includes Adjustable Stand, Padded Stool, Headphones and Power Supply

Piano Keys & Sheet Music

Number of Keys
A standard modern piano has 88 keys—52 white keys and 36 black keys, spanning just over seven octaves (from A0 to C8). Bartolomeo Cristofori’s early pianos had 54–60 keys, typically four to five octaves. By Mozart’s time in the 1760s, pianos often had 61 keys. The 88-key standard emerged as composers demanded greater range. Steinway & Sons, founded in 1853, helped standardize the 88-key piano and also set the standard for quality and sound in classical music and beyond.

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Piano Shirts and Gifts Collection

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Practice Keyboard Note Chart – Training Tool – Measures 48 inches Wide – Fits Across All 88 Piano Keys Bonnlo Adjustable Duet Piano Bench with Storage – Black Faux Leather – Wooden Legs – Cushioned Seat Grand Piano on the Moon – Astronaut Pianist – Funny Music T-Shirt Gift for Piano Teachers and Players VTech Zoo Jamz Zebra Piano – Light-Up Keys – Microphone Lets Kids Sing – 100+ Songs, Melodies, Sounds

More Piano Facts

Looking for more piano facts? Here are some of our favorite pages about pianos for you to enjoy:

Business Cards for Performers and Teachers

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Woman Playing Grand Piano image by Vika_Glitter

Piano Keys & Sheet Music image by neelam279

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Oud Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 24, 2015

Oud Facts

The oud dates back 3,000+ years, with roots in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Persia. It’s one of the oldest stringed instruments still in use, known for its distinctive pear-shaped body and short fretless neck. The bowl-shaped back is made from strips (ribs) of woods like rosewood, walnut, mahogany, or maple.

Often referred to as the “King of Instruments” in the Arabic world, the oud is a cornerstone of Middle Eastern and North African music. The lack of frets allows musicians to play microtones—notes between the standard Western scale—giving the oud its distinctive, expressive sound central to Arabic, Turkish, and Persian music.

Typically an oud has 11 or 13 strings (5 or 6 double courses plus a single low string). Oud tunings vary by region. Common Arabic tunings include C-F-A-D-G-C, while Turkish ouds often use D-E-A-B-E-A. This adaptability suits different musical traditions.

The oud and early guitars share key traits: a wooden soundbox, a neck for fingering notes, and plucked strings. While the guitar has diverged significantly from the oud in design and sound, the oud’s role as a foundational instrument in this evolutionary chain is well-documented. Beyond the Middle East, the oud has influenced music in Greece, Armenia, and Central Asia. More recently it has been adopted by Western musicians in jazz, world music, and fusion genres.

Young Man Playing Oud

More Oud Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called an oudist. Notable oudists include Tarek Abdallah, Rabih Abou-Khalil, Farid al-Atrash, Rahim Alhaj, Riad al-Sunbati, Ahmed Alshaiba, Amer Ammouri, Munir Bashir, Anouar Brahem, Hamza El Din, H. Aram Gulezyan, Aarif Jaman, Saad Mahmood Jawad, Marcel Khalife, Yuval Ron, Simon Shaheen, Naseer Shamma, Alan Shavarsh Bardezbanian, Yurdal Tokcan, Cinuçen Tanrıkorur, Dhafer Youssef, and Scott Wilson.

Ancestor of the Guitar
Modern guitars evolved from the oud, which was brought to Europe during the Middle Ages by the Moors in Spain. The oud directly inspired the European lute, a plucked string instrument popular during the Renaissance. In 16th-century Spain, the lute evolved into early guitar-like instruments, including the vihuela and four-course guitar. These instruments gradually developed into the modern six-string guitar by the 19th century, with changes like a flatter body and standardized tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E).

Arabic Oud Middle Eastern Decor

Stretched Canvas Wall Art

Arabic Oud Wall Art Fairuz Inspired Print for Middle Eastern Home Decor Stretched Canvas is Created with the Highest Standards Using Quality Inks

Yemeni Music Master Ahmed Alshaiba

An instrumental interpretation of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” was arranged by Ahmed Alshaiba, a young musician from Yemen who taught himself to play the oud, and made a splash on social media with his cover versions of pop songs.

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We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite oud player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Oud collection.

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Turkish Quality String Instrument Oud

Product details:

Mahogany bowl, spruce face, ebony pegs
High quality, beautiful instrument
Great tone, deep resonation, easy to tune
Plectrum and extra set of strings
Soft case for storage and portability
Two-year warranty certificate

Turkish Quality String Instrument Oud Spruce Face and Mahogany Bowl

Ouds for Sale

Middle Eastern Marketplace (Souk)

Craftsmanship
The best ouds are handcrafted by skilled luthiers, who meticulously shape the body, neck, and soundboard. High-quality ouds are handcrafted from woods like rosewood, walnut, or spruce, with intricate inlays and designs. Master luthiers can take months to build a single instrument.

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Oud Shirts and Gifts Collection

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D’Addario Arabic Oud Strings EJ95A – Set of 11 – Silver-Plated Copper – Medium String Gauge Oud Abstract Design T-Shirt – Middle Eastern Music – Great Gift for Oud Teachers, Students, Players Zaza Percussion – Portable Aluminum Oud Stand – Foldable Design with Crab Body and Footrest Folkways Records – Music for the Classical Oud – Khamis El Fino – Oud Virtuoso – 1964 – Audio CD

Courtesies

Man Playing Oud image by fsHH

Hanging Ouds and Scarves image by Orelian

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Mandolin Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 23, 2015

Mandolin Facts

A mandolin is a stringed musical instrument in the lute family. It’s usually plucked with a plectrum or pick. Mandolins evolved in Italy and first appeared during the 15th century. Deep-bowled mandolins were produced mainly in Naples, and became popular during the 19th century.

Similar string instruments around the world include the traditional Russian balalaika, the Greek bouzouki, the Puerto Rican cuatro, the Brazilian bandolim, and the Arab dambura.

The mandolin’s sound is popular in many types of music, including bluegrass, country, folk, rock, ethnic, jazz, and classical. Ludwig van Beethoven composed music specifically for the mandolin and also enjoyed playing it.

Players are drawn to the mandolin because it’s versatile, accessible, and relative easy to learn. It also offers an excellent introduction to the world of music. Mandolin playing skills can easily be applied to many other folk instruments.

Mandolin Bridge

More Mandolin Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a mandolinist. Notable mandolinists include Carlo Aonzo, Dave Apollon, Avi Avital, Jethro Burns, Hamilton de Holanda, Jacob do Bandolim, “Newgrass” Pioneer Sam Bush, Ry Cooder, David Grisman, Sierra Hull, Caterina Lichtenberg, Andrew Marlin (Watchhouse), Mike Marshall, Bill Monroe, James ‘Yank’ Rachell, Johnny Staats, Andy Statman, Adam Steffey, Chris Thile, and the “Queen of Bluegrass” Rhonda Vincent.

Global Musical Influence
The mandolin is strongly associated with Italian folk music and classical compositions—Antonio Vivaldi even wrote concertos for it. Thanks to the “Father of Bluegrass” Bill Monroe, the mandolin became integral to American bluegrass music. It’s also used in Irish, Brazilian choro, and Indian classical genres.

The Mandolin

French Impressionist Artist Berthe Morisot (1889)

The Mandolin by Berthe Morisot

Avi Avital – Venice Baroque Orchestra

The sights and sounds of Venice, Italy come to life in an homage to the beloved Italian composer, Antonio Vivaldi. Joined by the Venice Baroque Orchestra, mandolinist and composer Avi Avital performs Vivaldi’s Mandolin Concerto In C Major from his album Vivaldi. The young musician is well known for his renditions of Baroque and folk music, much of which was originally written for other string instruments.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite mandolin player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Mandolin collection.

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Vangoa A-Style Mandolin Sunburst

Product details:

Made of quality tonewood with popular sunburst color, shiny finish
Mahogany neck and bridge
Played by picks, no more pains on your fingers
Relatively wider range of 20 frets is suited to beginners or experienced players
A-style mandolin makes a great gift or first instrument
Ready to play straight out of the box!

Vangoa A-Style Mandolin in Sunburst Color (Also Available in Redburst)Includes Pick-up, Picks, Strap, Extra Strings, Durable Soft Bag, and Tuner

Mandolin Door Art

Funchal, Madeira Island (Portugal)

Madeira Mandolin Orchestra
The orchestra is a cultural highlight in Funchal, attracting tourists with weekly concert performances, often at the Madeira Regional Assembly or the English Church. Visitors describe it as a “must-see” experience on Madeira Island.

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Mandolin Shirts and Gifts Collection

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D’Addario Mandolin Strings EJ74 – Set of 8 – Phosphor Bronze – Full Tonal Spectrum – Medium String Gauge Hal Leonard Mandolin Method Book – Rich Del Grosso – Easy-to-Use Beginner’s Guide – Paperback The Practical Mandolin Chord Chart + Mandolin Fret Board, Tuning & General Info – Two-Sided Chart Evergreen Mandolin Music for Christmas – Butch Baldassari – Holiday Standards – Audio CD

More Mandolin Facts

Looking for more mandolin facts? Here are some of our favorite pages about mandolins for you to enjoy:

Business Cards for Performers and Teachers
Left-Hand Chord Charts

Courtesies

Mandolin image by torkosmedia

Mandolin Door Art image by Moonglow

MMO | Madeira Mandolin Orchestra®

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Lute Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 16, 2015

Lute Facts

The lute’s history traces back to ancient Mesopotamia. Its ancestor is the Arabic oud, meaning “the wood,” which was introduced to Europe via Moorish Spain and the Crusades around the 8th–13th centuries.

Early medieval lutes had four single strings, played with a quill plectrum. By the Renaissance, lutes typically had six courses, or pairs of strings. By the Baroque era, some had up to 14–19 courses, with bass strings added for a richer sound.

Lutes are known for their distinctive pear-shaped body and rounded back, artfully crafted from thin wooden strips glued together. The lute’s soundboard typically features a carved “rose,” an intricate soundhole that enhances the instrument’s unique, delicate tone.

Sadly, by the 18th century, the lute was overshadowed by keyboard instruments. The revival of the lute in the 20th century brought the instrument back into prominence after centuries of obscurity. This aligned with a broader interest in historical performance, which influenced classical music and folk traditions. Lute music appeared in film scores and period dramas, enhancing the instrument’s visibility. As a result, the lute has reclaimed its place as a respected solo and ensemble instrument.

Lute Soundhole Detail

More Lute Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a lutenist. Notable lutenists include Julian Bream, Peter Croton, John Dowland, Jacques Gallot, Joachim Held, Hubert Hoffmann, Lutz Kirchhof, Jakob Lindberg, Rolf Lislevand, Eugen Müller-Dombois, Nigel North, Paul O’Dette, Diana Poulton, Valéry Sauvage, and Christopher Wilson.

Symbolism and Art
The lute symbolized harmony, love, and youth in Renaissance art, often depicted in the hands of angels or lovers. A broken string, as seen in Holbein’s painting The Ambassadors, represented discord.

The Ambassadors (1533)

Hans Holbein the Younger

The Ambassadors by Hans Holbein the Younger – Premium Wall Art Print Using Non-toxic, Archival Inks

Marilyn with Lute
Marilyn Monroe’s friend Milton Greene first photographed her in 1953 when the actress was a rising star. That year she had leading roles in the film noir Niagara, and the comedies Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and How to Marry a Millionaire. The two collaborated on more than 50 photo sessions, and formed Marilyn Monroe Productions to protect her career from Hollywood powerhouses.

Marilyn Monroe with Lute

Officially Licensed Marilyn Monroe Wall Art

Marilyn Monroe Wall Art Poster Poster Measures 11×17 inches

Lutenist Valéry Sauvage

Accomplished string musician Valéry Sauvage plays the timeless classic “Greensleeves” on an instrument constructed by Stephen Murphy. Initially he plays the anonymous version from William Ballet’s Lute Book (late 16th or early 17th century). Valéry believes this to be the first known version for solo lute of “Greensleeves.” He segues into a version by Renaissance period composer and lutenist Francis Cutting, then back to the first version.

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We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite lute player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Lute collection.

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Roosebeck Tenor Lute-Kulele Ukulele

Product details:

Design is based upon the Renaissance Lute which was prevalent in Europe in the 16th and 17th century
Back is made in the traditional manner of lute making, with alternating staves of walnut and lacewood (Platanus orientalus)
Neck and pegbox are solid walnut
The second (E) and third (C) strings are doubled providing a rich full and balanced tone
Ideally suited for classical and fingerstyle music
European spruce soundboard
Features the famous Leonardo Knot rosette, a favorite of Renaissance lute makers
One of the sweetest sounding ukuleles in the Roosebeck collection

Roosebeck Tenor Lute-Kulele Ukulele Variegated – Walnut Back is Crafted With Alternating Staves of Walnut and Lacewood

Chinese Lute (Pipa)

Cultural Spread
Lute popularity spread across Eurasia by way of the Silk Roads, evolving into instruments like the Chinese pipa, Indian sitar, and Persian barbat. Its versatility made the lute a key instrument in various musical traditions, and it rapidly became a favorite for solo, accompaniment, and ensemble music.

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Lute Shirts and Gifts Collection

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Roosebeck 8-Course Lute Strings RBSLT8 – Traditional Renaissance Tuning Recommended for this Set First Coffee Then Lute Baroque Music Lover Musician Lutenist Cotton T-Shirt – Lute Player Humor I’m Only In It for The Lute – Funny Lute Player Cotton T-Shirt- Baroque and Medieval Instrument Humor Berkin Arts Leonardo Da Vinci Stretched Giclee Print On Canvas – Angel in Red with Lute – 7.4 x 15 inches

Courtesies

Lute Closeup image by Talie79

Chinese Pipa image by HiroTran

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Lap Steel Guitar Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 13, 2015

Lap Steel Guitar Facts

The lap steel guitar evolved in the late 19th century in Hawaii, credited to Joseph Kekuku, who, as a teenager around 1889, experimented with sliding a piece of metal along the strings of a guitar laid flat on his lap, creating the signature glissando sound. This technique was inspired by Hawaiian music’s emphasis on smooth, vocal-like melodies.

While rooted in Hawaiian music, the lap steel became integral to American genres like country, blues, and western swing. In country music, it’s iconic for its weeping, soulful bends, while in blues, it adds a raw, expressive edge. It’s also used in modern genres like indie and ambient music.

The instrument is typically played horizontally on the player’s lap or on a stand, unlike a standard guitar held upright. This position allows both hands to work freely—one wielding the slide, the other plucking or damping strings.

Hawaiian Lap Steel Skateboard Guitar

More Lap Steel Guitar Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a lap steel guitarist. Legends like Sol Hoʻopiʻi (Hawaiian music), Jerry Byrd (country), and David Gilmour (rock, Pink Floyd) have showcased the lap steel’s versatility. Modern artists like Ben Harper and Robert Randolph continue to push its boundaries. Other notable lap steel guitarists include Jeff Beck, Chuck Berry, John Fogerty (Creedence Clearwater Revival), Jerry Garcia (The Grateful Dead), George Harrison (The Beatles), James Kerr, John Lennon (The Beatles), Barbara Mandrell, Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin), and Ron Wood (The Rolling Stones).

Cultural Impact
The lap steel helped spread Hawaiian music globally in the early 20th century, influencing American pop culture through radio, films, and records. Its sound became synonymous with tropical escapism in the 1920s and 1930s.

Flaming Hands in Motion

Julie Turner Gallery Premium Stretched Canvas Print

Flaming Hands in Motion Originally Created in Acrylic by Julie Turner High-Resolution Photograph of the Artist’s Original Painting is Printed on 9×12 Canvas

Learn the Basics with Andrew Defrancisci

Andrew Defrancisci walks you through the basics of sliding and picking. Learn a few general playing techniques for the lap steel guitar.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite lap steel guitar player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Lap Steel Guitar collection.

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Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel Guitar

Product details:

Solid mahogany body for vibrant, wide ranging tone
Chrome hardware to match the striking Tobacco Sunburst finish
Gretsch single-coil pickup puts out lucidly smooth sounds
You’ll love the bang for your buck that you get with the G5700
Perfect for Blues, Rock, Hawaiian, Country, and Bluegrass
Plug the G5700 into your favorite amplifier

Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel with White Plastic Fretboard – Tobacco You’ll Get the Distinctively Rich Hawaiian Tones Only a Lap Steel can Provide

Nashville Pedal Steel Guitar

Electrification Pioneer
The lap steel was one of the first instruments to be electrified. In the 1930s, Rickenbacker and Gibson produced electric lap steels, including the Rickenbacker A-22 “Frying Pan,” considered one of the earliest commercially successful electric guitars.

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Batking 6-String Slotted Head Stock Electric Lap Steel Slide Guitar – Solid Poplar Body – Sunburst – Gig Bag S.I.T. Strings BEC6th Chromatic Tuning – Buddy Emmons Signature Series Pedal Steel Strings Alnicov Stainless Steel Tone Bar for Lap Steel Guitar – Chrome Plated on Polished Steel Body – Easy to Hold Fender Frontman 10G Guitar Amplifier – Closed-Back Design for Heavier Bass Response – Quality Tone

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Hawaiian Lap Steel Skateboard Guitar image by hhochwald

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Harpsichord Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 13, 2015

Harpsichord Facts

The harpsichord is a musical string instrument, somewhat similar in appearance to a piano. Both instruments are played by means of a keyboard. However, when a key is pressed on a harpsichord keyboard, a corresponding string is plucked to create a sound.

Similar plucked keyboard instruments in this family include the archicembalo, clavicytherium, ottavina, spinet, and virginal.

Replaced in popularity by the piano at the beginning of the nineteenth century, the harpsichord has enjoyed a renewed interest in recent times. Its unique sound is appropriate for historical music as well as contemporary compositions.

Harpsichord at Catherine Palace

More Harpsichord Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a harpsichordist. Notable harpsichordists include Tori Amos, Francesco Baroni, Michele Benuzzi, Michael Borgstede, Elizabeth Farr, Ketil Haugsand, Kim Heindel, Anthony Newman, Trevor Pinnock, Jean Rondeau, Andreas Staier, and Peter Watchorn.

Johann Sebastian Bach

Etude Magazine Poster Print (1944)

The Etude Music Magazine (1944) Johann Sebastian Bach at the Clavichord 24×36 Poster Print

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750)

The harpsichord was widely used in Renaissance and Baroque music. Johann Sebastian Bach was perhaps the most celebrated composer to write music specifically for the instrument. His solo works continue to be performed widely, though often on the piano. Bach was a pioneer of the harpsichord concerto, and featured the instrument in his Fifth Brandenburg Concerto.

Mathematical Brilliance
Bach’s Chaconne is a marvel of musical architecture. The piece is symmetrically structured, with the 64 variations divided into three sections (D minor, D major, D minor). The number of bars (257) and the proportional balance of sections reflect Bach’s fascination with mathematical precision.

Chaconne, The Novel

by Joseph C. Mastroianni

Johann Sebastian Bach lost both of his parents at an early age, then outlived 10 of his 20 children. His beloved wife died while he was away on a brief assignment. Chaconne, the Novel takes you back to the early 1700s when the legendary composer created what many consider his most emotionally raw piece of music. The story alternates between Bach and Brooklyn-born Milo Damiani, whose earliest memory is of his estranged father playing Chaconne on the violin. Though the characters are separated by two and a half centuries, their stories are woven together as both men deal with tragedy, pain, love of family, and joy.

Chaconne: The Novel Author Joseph C. Mastroianni

Modern Popularity
The Chaconne remains a cultural touchstone, frequently performed, analyzed, and referenced. It has appeared in films, inspired choreography, and been celebrated by musicians across genres, from classical to jazz. Its timelessness lies in its ability to speak to universal human experiences.

French Harpsichordist Jean Rondeau

Jean Rondeau plays Bach’s Chaconne for his debut album Imagine. Rondeau is an accomplished musician with impeccable credentials. He’s an award-winning master of the harpsichord, and is also proficient as a pianist, organist, and choral conductor. Rondeau co-founded Note Forget, an ensemble that features his jazz-oriented compositions and piano improvisations.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite harpsichord player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Harpsichord collection.

Build a Piece of Music History

The Art of Making a Harpsichord

by Darryl Martin

For nearly three centuries the harpsichord was a commonly played musical instrument, as well as a fashionable piece of furniture. This book gives readers an opportunity to learn some interesting harpsichord facts, and perhaps discover the challenging and rewarding pursuit of building an heirloom quality musical instrument.

Art of Making a Harpsichord

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750)

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Harpsichord Shirts and Gifts Collection

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Christophe Moyreau – Complete Harpsichord Music – Performed by Fernando De Luca – Audio CD Johann Sebastian Bach Musical Signature Notation T-Shirt – Impress Friends with Your Musical History IQ Johann Sebastian Bach Composer Musician Retro Style T-Shirt – Great Gift for Lovers of Music and History J.S. Bach: Goldberg Variations – Harpsichord Performed by Trevor Pinnock – Audio CD

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Harpsichord at Catherine Palace image by jackmac34

St. Thomas Church (Thomaskirche) City of Leipzig, Germany

Johann Sebastian Bach Bronze Statue image by WolfBlur

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Instruments

Harp Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 13, 2015

Harp Facts

As one of the oldest known stringed instruments, the harp has a history dating back to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, around 3,000 BCE. In Biblical times, harps were believed to have therapeutic properties. King Saul reportedly listened to harp music, played by David, to soothe his troubled mind.

Harps come in many forms, including pedal harps (used in orchestras), lever harps (common in folk music), and historical harps like the Celtic or Irish harp. Electric and cross-strung harps are often used for modern music.

A concert harp can weight up to 70 pounds and have over 1,400 moving parts, including pedals, rods, and tuning mechanisms. They’re crafted from premium materials like spruce for the soundboard, and hardwoods like maple or cherry for the body. Harps are often ornately decorated, making them beautiful visually as well as musically.

Unlike string instruments that utilize a bow or picks, harp playing relies entirely on finger technique. Harpists use both hands to pluck strings, often playing melody and accompaniment simultaneously.

The harp is a national symbol of Ireland, appearing on Irish coins and official seals. The Celtic harp, or cláirseach, is deeply tied to Irish musical tradition and folklore.

Hands Playing Celtic Harp

More Harp Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a harpist. Notable harpists include Nancy Allen, John Roy “Jon” Anderson, Alice Chalifoux, Alice Coltrane, Vincent Fanelli, Sidonie Goossens, Marcel Grandjany, Alphonse Hasselmans, Juan Hidalgo, Ursula Holliger, Pierre Jamet, Camille Kitt, Kennerly Kitt, Jean-Baptiste Krumpholz, Marco Marazzoli, Harpo Marx, Loreena McKennitt, Joanna Newsom, Carlos Salzedo, Marcel Tournier, and Nicanor Zabaleta.

Expensive Craftsmanship
Top harp makers like Lyon & Healy or Salvi have established reputations for quality, and their brand value contributes to the price. A professional-grade concert harp from these makers can range from $10,000 to over $50,000.

Harpo Marx with Giant Harp

Retro Marx Brothers Poster Print

Harpo Marx (1941) 28×22 Poster Print

Lucy and Harpo Marx

Lucille Ball invited Harpo Marx to appear on one of the most celebrated episodes in I Love Lucy history. Lucy, disguised as Harpo, performed alongside him in a hilarious “mirror” scene where they mimicked each other’s movements. Marx Brothers fans were familiar with the routine, made famous by the film Duck Soup (1933). Harpo then showcased his musical talent by performing a solo harp rendition of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” in his signature style.

Professional Harpist Courtney Kania-Young

Courtney Kania-Young plays Led Zeppelin’s popular 1971 tune, Stairway to Heaven. Courtney is classically trained and studied at the Cleveland Institute of Music. She loves playing rock, country, and Latino style music in addition to the classics.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite harp player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Harp collection.

Find a Harp Online

Aklot 15-String Beginner Harp

Product details:

Mahogany body with a satin finish
15 nylon strings (spare strings not included)
Blue and red strings help players recognize them
Every string has a ball end and steel string post
Harp stands approximately 22 inches high
Tuning wrench
Black carrying bag and strap

Aklot 15-String Beginner Harp and Accessories – Carrying Bag, Strap, Tuning Wrench Blue and Red Color Strings Help Players Recognize them Better While Learning the Harp

Harp with Flowers

Harp String Colors
On modern harps, strings are color-coded: C strings are red, F strings are black or blue, and the rest are natural or white, helping players navigate the 47 strings quickly.

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Harp Shirts and Gifts Collection

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Lyre Harp Carved from a Piece of Mahogany – 19 Steel Strings – Tuning Wrench – Picks – Carry Bag Liyafy Set of 10 Replacement Strings for Lyre Harp – Durable Metal Strings with Ball End Donner Lyre Harp – 16 Strings – Mahogany Body, Copper Saddle – Tuning Wrench – Spare Strings – Carry Bag Exquisitely Crafted Mini Harp Decorative Ornament – Nicely Detailed and Proportioned – Gift Box

More Harp Facts

Looking for more harp facts? Here are a few of our favorite pages about harps for you to enjoy:

Business Cards for Performers and Teachers

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Hands Playing Celtic Harp image by miogioco2011

Harp with Flowers image by Godsgirl_madi

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Guzheng Facts: Shop for Instruments, Accessories, Gifts

by musician on August 13, 2015

Guzheng Facts

The guzheng or Gu Zheng is a Chinese string instrument. Sometimes the name is shortened to zheng. No matter what you call it, the large, slender instrument functions as a plucked zither with 18 or more strings and movable bridges.

According to musicologists, the guzheng was inspired by early bamboo tube zithers. Today’s guzheng is quite different from the instruments made centuries ago. Modern players use picks—called DaiMao—which are often made from hawksbill turtle shells. Ancient picks were carved from ivory or tortoise shells.

Western musical styles have inspired a more modern playing technique where the left hand is used to provide harmony and bass notes. This allows for greater flexibility in the instrument’s musical range, but tends to limit subtle ornamentations provided by the left hand in more traditional music. Students at the Beijing Conservatory are required to learn a repertoire of both traditional and modern pieces.

Here are a few more interesting guzheng facts. Centuries ago the strings were made from silk. Today they’re nearly always metal-nylon, which increases the instrument’s capabilities, volume, and timbre. The strings are capable of creating graceful sounds that mimic a cascading waterfall, or stronger sounds like thunder and trotting horses.

Guzheng Performance

More Guzheng Facts

A person who performs on this string instrument is called a guzhengist or Chinese harpist. Notable guzhengists include Bei Bei He, Qui Je, Liu Le, Yuan Sha, Shirley Wang, Melody Yan, and Wang Zhongshan. These artists have not only preserved the guzheng’s traditional roots, but also expanded its reach through innovation and global outreach.

Cao Zheng (1920–1998)
As a professor at the China Conservatory of Music, Cao Zheng was a pioneer in modern guzheng teaching methods. She standardized techniques and notation, elevating the instrument’s status in academic settings, while preserving traditional repertoires.

Beautiful Young Woman Playing Guzheng

High-Quality Canvas Poster Print

Beautiful Young Woman Playing Guzheng High-Quality Canvas Poster Print White Semi-Gloss Artist Canvas is Waterproof and Moisture Proof

Virtuoso and Educationist Wang Zhongshan

The musical piece is called “Fishermen’s Song at Eventide.”

Famous Guzheng Music Pieces

“Fisherman’s Evening Song” (Yu Zhou Chang Wan) is a traditional piece from the Henan school, depicting fishermen singing as they return at dusk. Its melodic simplicity and rhythmic flow make it a beloved classic. Other iconic pieces include “High Mountain and Flowing Water” (Gao Shan Liu Shui), symbolizing friendship, and “Spring River in the Moonlight” (Chun Jiang Hua Yue Ye), evoking poetic imagery.

Best Gifts for Music Lovers

We’ve designed 2,000+ products for string instrument musicians and fans. Find a unique gift for your favorite guzheng player or enthusiast. Beware of inferior copycats! Our original designs are available here and in our String Kings Music Guzheng collection.

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Dunhuang Burmese Rosewood Guzheng with Master Signature

Product details:

Single-piece professional grade paulownia soundboard and backboard
Frame is made by Burmese rosewood with wood carving in the famous Banana Panel Night Rain design
Professional grade rosewood bridges
Accessories include guzheng picks and tape, tuning wrench, soundboard cleaning brush, soft carrying case
Professional Guzheng chromatic tuner
Two-piece matching stands
English and Chinese manual included
Dunhuang’s professional model is top seller in the market

Dunhuang 694KK Burmese Rosewood Guzheng with Master Signature Includes Everything You Need to Learn and Play this Beautiful Chinese String Instrument

Young Chinese Girl with Guzheng

Cultural Significance
The guzheng is a symbol of Chinese musical heritage, often associated with elegance, refinement, and emotional expression. It appears in classical literature, such as poems describing its evocative sound, and is linked to Confucian ideals of harmony and balance. The instrument’s mesmerizing sound enriches performances, and provides an immersive cultural experience for audiences throughout the world.

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Guzheng Shirts and Gifts Collection

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Lovermusic 1-21# Steel Wire and Nylon Guzheng Strings – Chinese Zither Accessory – Pack of 21 LANDTOM 16 Pieces (2 Sets) General Level Guzheng Finger Picks – Chinese Zither Finger Picks (Adult) ARTIBETTER Guzheng Rosewood Musical Bridge for Chinese Zither – Replacement Parts – 21 Pieces Gazechimp 87.5cm Guzheng Bridge Position Schematic Diagram for Beginners – High-Quality Paper

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Guzheng Performance image by allenking233

Young Chinese Girl with Guzheng image by ymyphoto