traquettes

Traquettes are a traditional French stringed instrument that originated in the Provence region of southeastern France. Often referred to as the "Provençal guitar," they are small, fretless, and typically have between four and six strings, though some variations feature up to eight. The instrument is played with a plectrum, similar to a guitar or mandolin, and produces a bright, melodic sound with a distinctive nasal timbre.

The traquette is believed to have evolved from the medieval rebec, an early bowed instrument, though its exact origins remain somewhat unclear. By the 18th and 19th centuries, it became a staple in Provençal folk music, often accompanying songs, dances, and storytelling. Its compact size and portability made it popular among traveling musicians and shepherds.

The instrument is usually made of wood, with a small, rounded body and a short neck. Unlike modern guitars, traquettes lack frets, allowing for a more expressive, microtonal playing style that reflects the melodic nuances of Provençal music. The tuning is typically in open strings, often in a configuration such as G-D-A-E or variations thereof, though this can vary depending on regional traditions.

Today, the traquette remains a symbol of Provençal cultural heritage, though it is less commonly heard in modern music compared to its historical prominence. Efforts by folk musicians and cultural preservationists have helped revive interest in the instrument, and it occasionally appears in contemporary folk revivals and traditional festivals. Its unique sound and historical significance continue to make it a fascinating subject for musicians and musicologists alike.