Psaltery

Description of the Psaltery

The psaltery is in the family of chordophones. Vibrating strings by running a bow across them makes their sound. The psaltery’s strings run the entire length of the instrument and put it in the same classification as the zither. The psaltery was developed in the Middle East, and was a very important instrument during the Medieval Period.

Tuning Instructions for the Psaltery

Always start with the shortest string and work to the longest string. This will ensure that you stay on the correct octave. You may replace the strings with #10 guitar strings. To tune, turn the pin in a clockwise direction while applying moderate pressure to maintain the friction holding the pin in place. The tuning pins are not threaded; rather they are tapered and held in place by friction. Pushing into the instrument as you tune the pins will seat them and make them hold firmly. You may need to re-tune frequently until your instrument is in condition. As you look at the soundboard the sharp and flat notes are to the left and the natural notes are to the right. The notes on the right side begin with C and end at the top with F. There are 2 ½ octaves on our psaltery.

Remember that the bow must be rosined to sound.

Tags: Bowed, Psaltery, String

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