psal
te
ry
noun
Third Person
psalteries
1
a stringed musical instrument featuring a flat wooden soundboard with strings stretched across it, traditionally played by plucking or striking the strings
A psaltery is an ancient stringed instrument that consists of a flat, wooden soundboard with strings stretched across it. The strings are either plucked with the fingers or a plectrum, or sometimes played with a bow. The psaltery can have different shapes, including triangular, rectangular, or trapezoidal, and it produces a clear, resonant sound. It was widely used in medieval and Renaissance music, often to accompany singing or other instruments. The psaltery is considered a precursor to the harpsichord and zither, and its simple yet melodic tones make it a distinctive part of early music traditions.
- The ancient psaltery, with its delicate strings and haunting melody, evoked a sense of serenity and tranquility.
- In medieval Europe, the psaltery was a popular instrument often played by minstrels and troubadours in the royal courts.
- The musician skillfully plucked the strings of the psaltery, producing a beautiful melody that captivated the audience.
- With its origins dating back to antiquity, the psaltery has been an integral part of musical traditions in various cultures around the world.
- The sound of the psaltery echoed through the cathedral, filling the sacred space with heavenly music during the religious ceremony.
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