Definitions
- Referring to a stringed musical instrument played by striking the strings with hammers. - Describing a traditional folk instrument used in various cultures around the world. - Talking about a musical instrument with a distinct, sweet sound that is often associated with Appalachian music.
- Describing a stringed musical instrument played by plucking the strings with fingers or a plectrum. - Referring to a traditional instrument used in various cultures around the world. - Talking about a musical instrument with a distinctive, twangy sound that is often associated with Alpine music.
List of Similarities
- 1Both are stringed musical instruments.
- 2Both have a long history and are used in various cultures around the world.
- 3Both produce a distinctive sound that is associated with specific types of music.
- 4Both can be played solo or as part of an ensemble.
- 5Both require skill and practice to play well.
What is the difference?
- 1Playing technique: Dulcimers are played by striking the strings with hammers, while zithers are played by plucking the strings with fingers or a plectrum.
- 2Shape and size: Dulcimers are typically trapezoidal or hourglass-shaped, while zithers are usually rectangular or trapezoidal.
- 3Number of strings: Dulcimers usually have fewer strings than zithers, typically ranging from 3 to 12, while zithers can have up to 40 or more strings.
- 4Sound: Dulcimers have a sweet, mellow sound, while zithers have a twangy, bright sound.
Remember this!
Dulcimer and zither are both stringed musical instruments with a long history and cultural significance. However, they differ in their playing technique, shape and size, number of strings, sound, and origin. Dulcimers are played by striking the strings with hammers, have a sweet sound, and are associated with Appalachian music. Zithers are played by plucking the strings with fingers or a plectrum, have a twangy sound, and are associated with Alpine music.
