itters

Itters are a type of musical instrument that originated in Europe during the Middle Ages. Specifically, they were used in the 16th and 17th centuries in various countries such as Germany, England, and the Netherlands. The instrument is characterized by a characteristic sound, often described as a gentle, soft noise, produced by using a series of mallets or mizmars to strike a series of metal or wooden rods.

The itter typically consists of two parts: the player's instrument, which houses the mallets, and the actual itter itself, a series of tensioned rods. These rods create the distinctive sound when struck by the mallets. Itters can also incorporate other elements such as strings or rattles, adding depth to the characteristic sound.

Historically, itters were used in various musical settings, including taverns and courtly performances. They played a variety of musical roles, including providing background noise and adding accents to the music played on other instruments.

Itters are no longer commonly used in modern musical settings. However, there is a growing interest in historical and folk music, which has led to occasional appearances of the itter in performances and exhibitions. Despite its relatively unknown status, the itter remains an intriguing example of the diversity and complexity of historical musical instrumentation.

Reconstructing an original itter can be a significant undertaking, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach. It involves a deep understanding of historical instrument-making practices and the cultural context in which the itter was used. Creating a working replica of an itter demands a substantial investment of time, money, and expertise.