fidla

Fidla is a small, usually four-stringed musical instrument played with a bow. It is a traditional instrument originating from the Balkan region, particularly found in Albania and parts of Macedonia. The fidla is a type of bowed lute, sharing similarities with other stringed instruments like the rebec or the erhu, though it possesses its own distinct construction and sound.

The body of the fidla is typically made of wood and is often pear-shaped or oval. It has a neck and a fingerboard, and the strings are stretched over a bridge. The bow used to play the fidla is similar to those used for violins or cellos, drawing across the strings to produce a resonant sound. The tuning of the fidla can vary, but it is often played in an open tuning.

Fidla music is characterized by its melodic and often improvisational nature. It is commonly used in folk music, accompanying singing or dancing, and plays a significant role in traditional celebrations and gatherings in its region of origin. The sound of the fidla is described as being bright and sometimes melancholic, contributing to the emotional depth of the music it performs. While not as widely known as some other stringed instruments, the fidla holds a special place in the cultural heritage of the Balkans.