psaltery etymology

Etymology

The word "psaltery" originates from the Greek word "ψαλτήριον" (psaltērion), which derives from the verb "ψάλλειν" (psallein), meaning "to pluck or twang." This term refers to the instrument's characteristic playing technique, which involves plucking the strings with a plectrum or the fingers.

Meaning

A psaltery is a stringed musical instrument classified as a chordophone, meaning it produces sound through vibrating strings. It is characterized by its trapezoidal or rectangular shape and its multiple strings stretched over a soundboard.

Origin

The psaltery has a long and diverse history, with its origins dating back to ancient civilizations. Here is a brief overview of its development:

• Ancient Near East: The earliest known psalteries appeared in the ancient Near East during the Bronze Age. They were often depicted in artwork and mentioned in texts from Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Levant.
• Greece: The Greeks adopted the psaltery from the Near East and developed their own version, known as the "psaltērion." It became an important instrument in Greek music and was used in religious rituals and performances.
• Europe: The psaltery spread from Greece to Europe during the Middle Ages. It was a popular instrument in medieval music, particularly in liturgical and secular settings.
• Renaissance and Baroque Periods: During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the psaltery continued to be used in various musical genres. It was a favorite instrument of composers such as John Dowland and Claudio Monteverdi.
• Later Developments: Over the centuries, the psaltery has evolved into various forms, including the bowed psaltery (dulcimer) and the hammered dulcimer. Today, it is still played in traditional and folk music around the world.

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