Meaning of "gamba" in music
In the context of music, "gamba" refers to the viola da gamba, which is a fretted, bowed string instrument that was popular during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The term "gamba" is derived from the Italian word for "leg," as the instrument is held between the legs while playing. The viola da gamba is part of the viol family and is known for its warm and rich tone. It was commonly used as a solo instrument and in ensembles, often played together with the recorder. The instrument's popularity declined in the 18th century as the violin family, including the cello, emerged as a distinct family of instruments .
The term "gamba" can also be used as an abbreviation for "viola da gamba" in music notation or to refer to a rank of organ pipes that produce a sound similar to the viola da gamba.
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1. Abbreviated name for the bowed stringed instrument viola da gamba.
2. The name for a rank of organ pipes that are similar in sound to the viola da gamba.
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