Sweeping across multiple strings (e.g., banjo, guitar). The Five Main Types
💡 Every instrument you play by vibrating a string—from a massive concert grand piano to a tiny ukulele—is technically a chordophone . 2,000-year-old stringed instrument uncovered in Vietnam chordophone
When a string is disturbed, it vibrates at a specific frequency to create a pitch. This sound is usually quiet on its own, so most chordophones use a —typically a hollow wooden body—to amplify the sound waves. Methods of Sound Production Sweeping across multiple strings (e
While Western traditions often group these as the "string family," the chordophone designation is more inclusive, covering global instruments like the Chinese , the Spanish vihuela , and the Ukrainian bandura . This sound is usually quiet on its own,
Hitting the strings with hammers or sticks (e.g., piano , hammered dulcimer).
Chordophones are divided into five categories based on the relationship between the strings and the resonator: Description Common Examples Strings stretch across a resonator and up a neck. Guitar, Violin, Lute, Banjo Zithers Strings are stretched across the body with no neck. Piano, Harpsichord, Dulcimer, Koto Harps Strings are stretched at an angle to the resonator. Orchestral Harp, Irish Harp Lyres Strings run to a crossbar held away from the resonator. Classical Greek Lyre Musical Bows
Using fingers or a plectrum (e.g., harp, guitar, ukulele ).