King Davids Lyre

Throughout history, the lyre has existed within many cultures in different forms, but perhaps the most influential has been the 10 string lyre of ancient Israel known as the kinnor. Mentioned several times in the Bible, King David is known for having played the kinnor in worship of the Lord, and in casting away evil spirits.

Here is another video from Michael Levy, known as Klezfiddle1 on youtube. After the video, visit Michael’s website where you can listen to many free samples and check out his 10 albums available for download. Then click here to view another performance of his, this time on a slightly different lyre.

A Taste of Turkey

Today the saz is a popular string instrument found all throughout Turkey, but it’s importance is even greater to history than simply its role in modern music. This long-necked lute has been a central component of Turkish folk music for centuries and is an ancestor of the Greek bouzouki.

After the video, click here to check out the oud, common string instrument of Middle-Eastern music.

Shamisen Rock

When Japanese strings meet western stylings, the Yoshida Brothers show what it is to rock the shamisen. After the video click here to check out the shamisen solo.

Ancient Lyre

Instrument of the ancient world, popular throughout Egypt, Israel and Greece, the lyre carries a distinct sound that tends to mesmerize the musician and listener alike. This video is one of many posted regularly on youtube channel Klezfiddle1.

After the video, Click Here to view another world music string instrument.

Gu Zheng Music Video

Finding quality music is a challenge, especially that which uses instruments out of the ordinary. It’s tough enough finding good music in general, but finding good songs with original instrumentation is usually just asking too much.

Not only does this song feature the amazing, nearly mystical sound of the Chinese gu zheng, but the video is truly creative as well, sure to entertain music-lovers all the world over. After the video Click Here to check out the yangqin, another Chinese string instrument.