ledder

Leder is a traditional German stringed musical instrument that belongs to the zither family. It is primarily associated with the region of Swabia in southern Germany, particularly the cities of Stuttgart and Esslingen. The name "Leder" is derived from the German word for leather, as the instrument was historically made with a wooden body covered in leather.

The Leder resembles a small, trapezoidal zither with a narrow neck and a soundboard that is typically made of wood, often spruce or pine. It has a distinctive curved shape, with the soundboard extending outward at the bottom. The instrument is played by plucking or strumming the strings with the fingers or a plectrum, producing a warm, resonant tone. The Leder usually has between 12 and 20 strings, arranged in pairs or groups that are tuned in unison or octaves.

Historically, the Leder was a common instrument in rural areas of Swabia, used for folk music, dance accompaniment, and as a solo instrument. It was particularly popular during the 19th and early 20th centuries, though its use declined in the mid-20th century. In recent decades, there has been a revival of interest in traditional German instruments, leading to a resurgence in the popularity of the Leder.

The Leder is often played in a seated position, with the instrument resting on the player’s lap or supported by a stand. Its sound is rich and mellow, making it well-suited for both melodic and rhythmic roles in folk music. While it is less common than other zithers, such as the Appalachian dulcimer or the Austrian zither, the Leder remains an important part of Swabian musical heritage. Today, it is occasionally featured in folk festivals, cultural events, and by musicians seeking to preserve traditional German instrumentation.