lutes

A lute is a plucked string instrument with a neck that continues into a waisted, bowl-shaped body, typically carved from wood and covered with a soundboard. It belongs to a family of instruments developed in the Middle East and Europe, and the word lute derives from the Arabic al-ud.

Most lutes have tied frets and gut strings, arranged in courses that may be single or paired strings. The body is usually made from carved or bent wood ribs forming a rounded back, with a rosette soundhole and a distinct waist. The neck is long and fretted, allowing polyphonic melodies and chordal accompaniment. The instrument is plucked with the fingertips or a small plectrum.

Historically, lutes appeared in the medieval Islamic world and spread to Europe in the Middle Ages, flourishing during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Composers such as John Dowland and Francesco da Milano wrote extensively for the instrument, and the lute was used as a solo instrument and for ensemble accompaniment. By the 18th century, its popularity waned, but it was revived in the 20th century by early-music ensembles and scholars.

The lute family encompasses several forms, including the European lute, the archlute, and the theorbo, which has an extended neck with additional bass strings. Related instruments include the oud and other long-necked lutes in the Middle East and Central Asia. In modern practice, lutes are played in early-music contexts, historically informed performances, and some contemporary compositions.