When looking for a bowed psaltery for sale there are many options open to you. The bowed psaltery is an adaptation of an ancient musical instrument that dates back to biblical times. As the name implies it is played with a bow rather than plucked by fingers or picks to create the musical tones it supplies. Usually used as an accompaniment instrument it can be played with two bows to produce the completed musical piece.

Your bow touches only one string at a time when you use this instrument and is located to one side or the other of it when in use. In the same way a piano has white and black keys here you have left and right sides for different notes with the flats and sharps to the left of it. The small hole in the top acts as a sound board to increase the volume of music as it emits from the strings.

It is extremely easy to learn to play whether you have a musical background or not. Most people can master the use of it in three or four hours and with a little practice can be playing music within a day or so at most. It is recommended that you start children on the soprano model because it is smaller and easier to hold. They can also be purchased in left handed models but most builders do not stock them and must build them when ordered.

When ordering the one you want you will have a choice of which wood you would like to be used. Most sites online display photographs of instruments they have built with descriptions of wood and what the wood can do for the sound of equipment you are purchasing. Different types of wood will alter the voice of your instrument.

While you may find that you have choice of wood your item is made of you will also learn that the hardwoods create sharper, brighter notes and the softer woods create a soft and mellow sound. The preferred woods that are used are cherry, spruce, red wood and mahogany. The pin blocks are always made of very hard maple and are secured so they never become away from the sound board.

When choosing who you want to build your instrument you should find out if they supply the tools necessary to play and care for it. Most builders will supply you with a bow, a tuning tool, extra strings and more. They may also provide a carry case for the instrument. You should not leave it out and unprotected when not in use because this can damage the strings and spoil the sound of it.

Most musical instruments cost much more that you will be paying for this one. There are places that you can purchase kits to build for yourself if you are so inclined. You will be able to find either type of instrument either online or at a local specialty store.

Finding a handmade bowed psaltery for sale on line is not difficult. Determining which builder to select may be a bit more of a challenge for you. If you check references and read their reviews the decision may become easier.