The lirone (also called the lira da gamba) is the largest instrument in the lira family. It was widely used in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The lirone is a bowed string instrument with 9 to 16 gut strings and a fretted neck. When played, it is held between the legs, similar to how a cello or viol (viola da gamba) is held.

It was used in Italian operas and oratorios to help singers, especially those portraying gods. Because the lira da gamba could not play the lowest notes, musicians needed another instrument to provide the bass. These instruments included the theorbo, harpsichord, or viola da gamba.

Description

The Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians explains that the lirone is a larger version of the lira da braccio. Both instruments have a broad fingerboard, a flat bridge, and a pegbox shaped like a leaf with pegs located at the front. The flat bridge of the lirone allows musicians to play chords made up of three to five notes at the same time.

History

The lirone was mainly used in Italy during the late 1500s and early 1600s, especially during the time of Claudio Monteverdi, to add harmony when singing. It was often played in Catholic churches, especially by the Jesuits.

Performers

Although there has been a growing interest in Baroque instruments during the 20th century, very few musicians play the lirone. Well-known musicians who perform on the instrument include Erin Headley from England; Imke David, Claas Harders, and Hille Perl from Germany; Annalisa Pappano from the United States; Laura Vaughan from Australia; and Paulina van Laarhoven from the Netherlands.