The psaltery (psalterion, saltere, sauterie, Psalterium, Psalter, salterio)
is an ancient instrument seen in many forms. Early versions were simply
a wooden board with gut strings stretched between pegs. The strings were
plucked with fingers or by plectra (the name might have derived from the
Greek psallein meaning plucked with fingers). Later instruments included
the hollow box or soundboard with soundholes and metal strings. The player
performed with the instrument on the lap or on a table, or in front of
the chest held with a strap around his neck if movement was needed.
The name of psaltery entered Christian literature in the 3rd century
B.C. translation of the Old Testament called the Septuagint where, in
the Psalms, nebel was translated psalterion. Thus, Nebuchadnezzar's
idolatrous ensemble included the Aramic psantria. Notice, also, that
the book of Psalms has also become known as the Psalter (or psalterium),
from the hymns sung with this harp.
Southern Europe, influenced by Moorish Spain, preferred the trapezoidal
psaltry with three or four strings to a note. Northern psalteries tended
to be triangular or wing-shaped and single or double-strung. Like most
other instruments of the time, the psaltery had no specific repertory,
but was used to play whatever music the occasion demanded. It was referred
to frequently in lists of musicians and instruments and in the art of
the time. The psaltery was widely used until about 1500, but could not
cope well with the chromaticism of the Renaissance, so was used less
as time passed. It is thought that the psaltery evolved into the harpsichord,
zither, and other instruments.
Want to hear a sample
of the music?
The psaltery I've
created is a simple but interesting instrument which is easily played
by using a standard guitar pick. I'll send along some instructions to
get you playing a couple of tunes almost as soon as you receive it.
The instrument is
about 500mm long, 400mm wide and 50mm deep. It weighs about 2Kgs.
The tuning is easily
accomplished using a standard Guitar tuner.
The instrument is
made from fine Veneered Ply and finished with several coats
of a high grade Estapol to bring out the rich natural colors of the
timber.
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