It is believed that music is as old as time. Throughout ages, music has been part of the lives of the people. Think about centuries back, when our ancestors were still growing their cultures, music was already ubiquitous and were one of the means used by our old folks in socializing with others. As centuries go by, music has been utilized for many purposes. There have been music for conflict, music for conquest, and music for downfall, among others. Among these periodical music, Medieval music is a point of interest, where Medieval instruments music and hymn are the major topic.
The period between 5th to 15th centuries in Europe brought about medieval music. If we review our history, the start of the dark ages was the fall of the Roman Empire and ends in the early 15th century, approximately. Gregorian Chant is considered as the most predominant type of earlier medieval period music. It is of a liturgical genre. There are other types of Medieval music that is not church-related, and with more complex sound composition compared to the traditional monophonic style of Gregorian Chant. More than the music itself, Medieval period is known for the instruments that are still being used today. Among these instruments consist of lute, viol, rebec, hand drum, bagpipes, and organetto, to name a few.
Considered to be the one of the most esteemed Medieval instruments throughout the Medieval Period, the lute is contained in all the possible materials, accents, and accompaniments, like tapestries, and wall hangings. According to records, the first lutes were made of wood, bone, ivory, and exotic woods. As a stringed instrument that is similar to guitar, lute is plucked using what they call a "plectrum" or using fingers.
Another medieval music instrument is the Viol, an instrument that is played using a bow. The Viol is usually held on the lap, or placed between the legs. This musical instrument is said to be similar to a modern day cello.
Another bowed instrument that is like a diminutive violin is the Rebec. This is infamous for its sound, which is almost similar to the human voice. Annals say that the rebec came from Central Asia, and an instrument of the lower classes.
An example of a versatile medieval music instrument is a hand drum, used by the Irish and the Scots. The Irish and Scots also have bagpipes, used mainly for battles, but are used also in their quotidian living. Modern bagpipes present nowadays, nevertheless, have more pieces to them. Nevertheless, if you can see the variations it is due to the place or region where they have come from. One more popular instruments of the 13th through 16th century is the organetto, which is said to be similar to a modern-day organ when it comes to sound. It is also believed that most likely, it is the inspiration for the accordion.
There are still more instruments in the medieval ages. The above mentioned are just few of them. These instruments have numerous roles and functions in the period that they are predominant. Modern versions of these Medieval instruments music are available and are ready to use. It is also better if we, the present day people, learn the history of our instruments, and compare how they function now and in the past.
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