banduras

The bandura is a traditional Ukrainian plucked string instrument that combines features of a lute and a zither. It has a large wooden body and a long neck, with many strings stretched across a soundboard. The strings are typically plucked with the fingers, and in many designs the left hand presses or dampens strings on a fretted neck to produce different pitches. Modern concert banduras commonly have from about 30 to 60 strings, plus several bass strings, and they can be tuned to diatonic or chromatic scales depending on the model.

Origins and development: The bandura developed from earlier Ukrainian string instruments such as the kobza and lira, and became associated with folk musicians known as kobzars who sang epic poems called dumy. Over time regional styles emerged, and the instrument evolved into larger, more concert-oriented forms. In the Soviet era, traditional instruments faced cultural suppression, but a revival and standardization of bandura making and pedagogy occurred later in the 20th century, helping to restore its prominence in Ukrainian music.

Playing and repertoire: The bandura is used to accompany singing, storytelling, and instrumental pieces. It features a wide repertoire ranging from traditional folk songs and dumy to contemporary compositions. Performers may use different tunings and techniques, and ensembles often include multiple banduras to cover the middle and bass ranges.

Modern status: Today the bandura remains an important symbol of Ukrainian musical heritage. It is taught in Ukrainian schools and conservatories and performed by professional ensembles as well as amateur and diaspora groups, continuing to evolve in both folk and modern music contexts.