Pronunciation: [kɪtˈɑːɹə] (IPA) 
The word "Kitara" is spelled as /kɪˈtɑːrə/, with emphasis on the second syllable. The letter "K" is pronounced as /k/ while the vowel "i" is pronounced as /ɪ/. The consonant "t" is pronounced as /t/ and the vowel "a" is pronounced as /ɑː/, followed by the consonant "r" pronounced as /r/ and the vowel "a" pronounced again as /ə/. The word is often used to refer to a guitar-like instrument commonly used in traditional African music.
Kitara is a musical instrument belonging to the family of stringed instruments. It is a modern variant of the traditional African harp, originating from Uganda. The Kitara is renowned for its unique design and features that incorporate both traditional and modern elements. This instrument typically consists of a rectangular wooden resonator box that acts as its soundboard, along with a relatively long neck. The neck usually includes a varying number of strings, ranging from five to eight, made of nylon or gut.
The playing technique of the Kitara involves plucking the strings with the fingers or a plectrum, producing melodious sounds. The player can create pitch variations by altering the length of the strings with their fingers along the neck. The wooden resonator enhances the sound projection of the instrument, creating rich and vibrant tones.
The Kitara is deeply rooted in traditional Ugandan music and is often played in ceremonial events, cultural rituals, and celebratory gatherings. Its resonating and captivating melodies have also gained popularity beyond the borders of Uganda, contributing to the global recognition and adoption of this instrument.
In contemporary music, the Kitara has undergone several modifications, incorporating electric elements such as pickups and amplifiers. The electric Kitara offers a fusion of traditional and modern tones, allowing musicians to experiment with various music genres and creating a distinct musical identity.
The word Kitara has its origins in the ancient Greek word kithara, which referred to a type of stringed instrument played in ancient Greece. It is believed that the Greek term itself was derived from the Old Persian word sihtar, which also denoted a musical instrument. Over time, the pronunciation and spelling of the word may have changed and evolved into Kitara.
