VIOLAS DA GAMBA Meaning and
Definition
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Violas da gamba is a plural form of the Italian term "viola da gamba," which translates to "viol of the leg." It refers to a family of stringed musical instruments that originated in Europe during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Violas da gamba are characterized by their unique design, featuring a flat back and sloping shoulders, and usually have six or seven strings. They are played with a bow, similar to a violin, but are held between the legs (hence the term "viol of the leg") and supported by a spike.
These instruments possess a rich and mellow tone, with a wide range that can be compared to that of a singing voice. The viols da gamba family consists of various sizes and pitches, including treble, tenor, bass, and even a rare contrabass. They played a prominent role in chamber music, as well as in orchestras and solo performances, during the Renaissance and Baroque eras.
While the popularity of viols da gamba declined in the 18th century, they experienced a revival during the 20th century with the rise of historical performance practices. Today, these instruments are valued for their unique sound and are still played by dedicated musicians and ensembles specialized in historically informed performances. Violas da gamba continue to contribute to the authenticity of Renaissance and Baroque music, capturing the essence of a bygone era.
