Chordophone Today

Chordophones are divided into five categories based on the relationship between the strings and the resonator: Description Common Examples Strings stretch across a resonator and up a neck. Guitar, Violin, Lute, Banjo Zithers Strings are stretched across the body with no neck. Piano, Harpsichord, Dulcimer, Koto Harps Strings are stretched at an angle to the resonator. Orchestral Harp, Irish Harp Lyres Strings run to a crossbar held away from the resonator. Classical Greek Lyre Musical Bows

When a string is disturbed, it vibrates at a specific frequency to create a pitch. This sound is usually quiet on its own, so most chordophones use a —typically a hollow wooden body—to amplify the sound waves. Methods of Sound Production

While Western traditions often group these as the "string family," the chordophone designation is more inclusive, covering global instruments like the Chinese , the Spanish vihuela , and the Ukrainian bandura . chordophone

Chordophones are among the oldest known musical tools. Recent archaeological finds in uncovered a 2,000-year-old stringed instrument made from deer antler, marking it as one of the earliest chordophones found in Southeast Asia.

Hitting the strings with hammers or sticks (e.g., piano , hammered dulcimer). Chordophones are divided into five categories based on

Using fingers or a plectrum (e.g., harp, guitar, ukulele ).

A simple string stretched between two ends of a flexible stick. Berimbau, Ancient Bows ⏳ Historical Context Orchestral Harp, Irish Harp Lyres Strings run to

Drawing a bow across strings to create sustained friction (e.g., violin, cello).