The Lyre

 

The Lyre is classified alongside lutes, guitars, psalteries into the Zither family. There are various discoveries of Lyre use dating more than two millenia BC in various countries and across continents that it makes it difficult to nail an origin for the Lyre. Although the seeming oldest with 7 strings was found in Crete and developed in present day Iraq. 

  Lyre is a stringed instrument known mainly for its use in ancient Greece. In Greek mythology it originates from an otherwise funny interaction between the young god Hermes and Apollo.

   As a stringed instrument, Lyre has between 4-10 strings depending on the localty where it is used. Its other components are; 

• A sound chest (wooden or made from tortoise shell, other material) - from which its two arms are raised curved out and forwards.
• Yoke - which connects the two arms
• Crossbar - which transmits the vibration of strings and is connected to the sound chest to form the bridge.

  Those used in Europe and some places in Middle East had a bow.

  The strings can be tuned and are strummed with a pick, not hands like the harp (its fraternal twin). But the fingers of the free hand can be used to silence the strings unwanted to sound.  

  Over time, different parts and types of the Lyre has been reorganised. They're played to lyrical tunes. An example is its recommendation to play with Psalms. 

    It's no doubt the Lyre gives a calming melody. It's still used in North East Africa presently.