Lyre

ancient music · stringed instrument · classical

Two-armed beauty. The lyre has two curved arms connected by a crossbar, creating a distinctive U-shape that holds the strings tight. This clever design makes it one of the most recognizable instruments from ancient times.

Lute family member. Musicians classify the lyre as a member of the lute family, which means it belongs to a large group of stringed instruments that work by plucking or strumming the strings.

Ancient symbol. The lyre was hugely popular in ancient Greece and was played by famous musicians in myths and legends, like the musician Orpheus who could charm anyone with his playing.

Same plane strings. What makes a lyre special is that its strings attach to a yoke, or frame, that sits flat in the same plane as the sound table, making the sound project outward beautifully.