Cíos

Cíos is a traditional Irish musical instrument, primarily used in Irish traditional music. It is a type of bowed string instrument, similar to a violin, but with a distinctive sound and design. The cíos is typically made of wood and has a pear-shaped body, a long neck, and a rounded back. It has four strings, tuned to the same pitch as a violin, but with a lower pitch due to its larger size. The strings are played using a bow, which is held in the left hand and drawn across the strings to produce sound. The cíos is often used in ensembles, such as ceoltoirí, and is a key instrument in Irish traditional music sessions. It is also used in contemporary music and has been featured in various genres, including folk, rock, and classical music. The cíos is an important part of Irish musical heritage and is often associated with the country's rich cultural history.