The primary ancestor of the modern guitar from the medieval period is known as the gittern. This fascinating stringed instrument was a popular choice among various segments of medieval society.
Understanding the Gittern
The gittern held a significant place in medieval music and culture. It was widely used by court musicians, providing entertainment and artistic expression within noble households. Beyond the courts, it was also a favored instrument among minstrels, who traveled and performed for diverse audiences, bringing music and stories to towns and villages. Furthermore, its accessibility and engaging nature made it popular with amateurs who played for personal enjoyment or small gatherings.
Historical Lineage and Influence
Considered a direct ancestor of the contemporary guitar, the gittern played a crucial role in the evolution of stringed instruments. Its development paved the way for many modern plucked instruments. The gittern's influence extends to other notable instruments, including the:
- Mandore: A small lute-like instrument.
- Bandurria: A Spanish instrument with a bright, mandolin-like sound.
- Gallichon: Another lute-family instrument, often associated with the bass register.
These instruments share common roots with the gittern, showcasing its broad impact on the musical landscape that continues to shape our understanding of stringed instruments today.
Gittern vs. Modern Guitar: An Ancestral Comparison
While distinctly different in construction and sound, the gittern laid fundamental groundwork for its modern descendant.
| Feature | Gittern | Modern Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Historical Period | Medieval era (roughly 13th-15th centuries) | Post-medieval to contemporary |
| Relationship | Considered a direct ancestor | Descendant, evolved from instruments like the gittern |
| Popular Users | Court musicians, minstrels, amateurs | Musicians across all genres and skill levels |
| Cultural Role | Instrumental in medieval music, foundational for later string developments | Dominant and versatile instrument in global music, wide-ranging genres |
Legacy of the Gittern
The legacy of the gittern is profound, representing a pivotal stage in the history of plucked string instruments. Its widespread use and role as a precursor to the modern guitar highlight its importance in shaping musical traditions and instrument design across centuries. Understanding the gittern provides insight into the rich tapestry of medieval music and its continuous influence on the instruments we cherish today. For more information, you can explore resources on its history and characteristics, such as the Gittern Wikipedia page.
