oiré

**Oiré**

Oiré is a traditional French musical instrument from the Pays de la Loire region, particularly associated with the Loire Valley. It is a small, fretted zither-like stringed instrument with a rectangular body and a single set of strings stretched across a soundboard. The instrument typically has between six and eight strings, though some versions may have more. Oiré players use a small, flat wooden or plastic pick to pluck the strings, producing a bright, resonant sound that is often described as melodic and slightly nasal.

The oiré is closely related to other zither-like instruments such as the *guiter* and *cymbalum*, which were also popular in medieval and Renaissance Europe. Its origins trace back to the 16th century, though it gained prominence in the 19th and early 20th centuries as a folk instrument in rural areas. The instrument was often used in folk music, dance, and religious ceremonies, reflecting the cultural traditions of the region.

Today, the oiré remains a niche instrument, primarily played by enthusiasts and in traditional music festivals. It is sometimes used in contemporary folk or experimental music to evoke a sense of historical authenticity. While not as widely recognized as instruments like the violin or accordion, the oiré holds cultural significance in its native region, particularly in the Loire Valley, where it is sometimes paired with other traditional instruments such as the *tible* or *tible de Loire*. Efforts to preserve and promote the oiré continue through local music groups and historical societies.