lira da braccio in music meaning

Meaning of Lira da Braccio in Music

The **lira da braccio** was a European bowed string instrument that was used during the Renaissance period. It was primarily used by Italian poet-musicians in court settings. The term "lira da braccio" translates to "lyre of the arm" in English, referring to the instrument's shape and the way it was played. The lira da braccio was similar to the medieval fiddle and the rebec, but it evolved into a distinct instrument with its own characteristics.

Characteristics and Use

The lira da braccio had a wide fingerboard and a curved body, similar to the shape of a lyre. It typically had six or seven strings, arranged in multiple courses. The instrument's neck was usually unfretted, although occasionally it could be fretted The lira da braccio was played by drawing a bow across the strings, producing a rich and resonant sound.

Italian instrument makers were known for constructing lira da braccio instruments, and Venice became an important center for their production during the 16th century. The lira da braccio was commonly used in chamber music and courtly settings, where it provided accompaniment for vocal melodies and other musical activities.

Conclusion

The lira da braccio was a bowed string instrument used during the Renaissance period. It had a wide fingerboard, a curved body, and six or seven strings. The instrument was primarily used by Italian poet-musicians in court settings and was known for its rich and resonant sound.

Also called viola da braccio, this instrument, popular in the Renaissance, is related to the violin. It has a similar shape to the violin, with seven strings, a wider neck than the violin, and a flatter bridge.