Bandurria
A plucked-string instrument similar to the lute, but smaller.
- Family
- Plucked string
- Area
- Canary Islands
History
The bandurria belongs to a long European lineage of plucked-string instruments related to the ancient pandura. It spread widely during the Renaissance and eventually joined popular ensembles throughout Spain, including the Canary Islands.
Characteristics
It has a lute-like but smaller body, a short fretted neck and six double courses of metal strings. It is played with a plectrum, and tremolo sustains its naturally brief, incisive sound.
Where it is used
In the Canary Islands it is heard mainly in rondallas and parrandas, adding melodic lines above the accompaniment of guitars and timples. Its sound is also present in plucked-string ensembles and festive repertoires.
