Music
Music is defined as a collection of sounds referred to as tones or melodies, produced by instruments known as musical instruments. It varies between Eastern and Western traditions and has been influenced by numerous cultures across the globe. The spread of musical instruments through exploration and the studies conducted by musicians has led to various musical genres. Types of musical instruments include percussion instruments, string instruments, and more.
String Instruments
There are several well-known string instruments, including:
Oud
The oud is one of the most famous string instruments in Arabic music. It typically features five strings and consists of a wooden body known as the “back of the oud,” which resembles a pear and is hollow inside. The “face of the oud” covers it, and the strings extend to a part known as the “neck of the oud,” ending with twelve pegs for tuning the strings and defining the intensity of the emitted tones. A small tool called a “pick” is used to strum the strings while the musician presses down on them.
Qanun
The qanun is a string instrument comprising 78 strings, played with small tools that are worn on the fingers, similar to a thimble used by tailors. However, the thimble for playing the qanun differs from that used for sewing, as it has a specific shape designed for strumming the strings. There is no single source that confirms the origin of this instrument; it is believed to have emerged during the Assyrian era and was introduced to the Arab world during the Abbasid period.
Buzuq
The buzuq is a string instrument recognized in Greece and popular among the Kurdish people. It resembles a smaller version of the oud but features a longer neck. It made its way to Iraq and Turkey through Kurdish musicians, finding a place in various musical pieces performed there, where it is referred to as “Buzuq” by the Turkish.
Mandolin
The mandolin is a smaller string instrument akin to the oud, equipped with four strings, and is played using a pick. This musical instrument emerged in the 15th century, evolving from an earlier instrument known as the mandola, providing a refined design. It is typically utilized in performing solo musical compositions.
Harp
Also known as the “harp,” this instrument was used by the ancient Egyptians. It is constructed from dried wood with strings attached for playing in religious ceremonies. The harp has been adopted by various other civilizations and contains 45 strings, sharing many musical tones with the qanun; however, it is played using both hands.
Guitar
The guitar is a widely recognized string instrument consisting of six strings, with each string connected to a tuning peg located on the neck of the guitar. It can be played using a pick or both hands. The guitar emerged in the 14th century, originally featuring four strings. In the 17th century, a fifth string was added, continuously evolving until the 18th century when it reached its current configuration of six strings. Additionally, an electric version emerged, contributing to music in America.
Violin
The violin is a string instrument prominently used in classical music. It is played with a bow that interacts with four strings on the instrument’s body. The violin underwent significant development and took its current form in the 16th century in Italy, being embraced by renowned musicians, including Beethoven.
Video of Different Musical Instruments
Watch the video to explore unusual musical instruments that you may not have encountered before: