BANDURRIA Meaning and
Definition
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A bandurria is a musical instrument that belongs to the lute family, specifically to the plucked string instruments. It is commonly found in Spain, particularly in the regions of Castile, Murcia, and Andalusia. The name "bandurria" itself is derived from the Latin word "pandura," which refers to a similar stringed instrument used in ancient times.
The bandurria typically consists of a flat, rounded body that is made of wood, often with a soundhole in the center. It has a long, slender neck with a fretted fingerboard and multiple pairs of metal strings attached in courses. The pairs of strings are usually tuned in unison or octaves, giving the instrument a rich and resonant sound.
Traditionally, the bandurria is played with a plectrum or pick, which is used to strike the strings. It can be played both as a solo instrument or as part of an ensemble, such as in a folkloric or classical music setting.
The bandurria has a versatile range and is known for its bright and vibrant sound. It is particularly associated with Spanish music, especially with flamenco and traditional folk genres. The instrument often provides melody, rhythm, and harmonic accompaniment in various musical contexts.
In summary, the bandurria is a plucked string instrument with a flat-bodied design, a set of metal strings in courses, and a rich and resonant sound. It is deeply rooted in Spanish musical traditions and is known for its versatility and unique contribution to various genres of music.
Etymology of BANDURRIA
The word "bandurria" has its etymology rooted in the Spanish language. It comes from the Latin word "pandura", which refers to a musical instrument from the ancient Roman period.
During the Middle Ages, the pandura evolved into different variations across Europe. In Spain, it adopted the name "bandurria", likely influenced by the Arab musical instrument called "bunādir".
The Arab term "bunādir" itself derived from the Persian word "tanbūr". The tanbūr is an ancient stringed instrument that originated in Mesopotamia and spread across different regions, including Persia and the Arab world.
Over time, the Spanish bandurria became a distinctive instrument, with its own structure, number of strings, and playing technique. It is often associated with Spanish traditional music and is a significant component of various Spanish ensembles, such as the rondalla.
