Generally found in Spain and areas of Latin America, the bandurria is a kind of plucked lute (that is, you use a pick or your fingers on the strings) which has a relatively small soundbox or resonator, a short fretted fingerboard, and wire or gut strings. Dating from at least the 14th century, its history and transmission reflects the movement of people and culture across the Iberian peninsula. This instrument is called the bandola in Cuba, Chile and Peru where it is used in many styles of folk and popular music
The sound box of the bandurria usually has a flat back. However in the Stearns Collection, one unusual model from the Philippines has a body made from a hollowed-out half coconut shell.
|
