5 Course Medieval Gittern Lacewood by Muzikkon

The 5-course Medieval Gittern was a popular instrument throughout the Middle Ages, especially during the 14th and 15th centuries, before giving way to other stringed instruments in the Renaissance era.

The gittern was a prominent plucked string instrument in the late medieval period, valued across all levels of society. Its music filled many different spaces, from the courts of royalty and religious services to taverns and celebratory events. Often played to accompany songs and dances, it was also commonly paired with the lute in duets. Despite its significant role in medieval musical life, no specific pieces or compositions have survived that were written exclusively for the gittern.

Its compact size and portable design made it an ideal travel companion for troubadours, minstrels, and musicians of the period. The gittern features a pear-shaped body and a thin, curved soundboard that produces a bright, lively tone ideal for solo performances and accompaniment.

Specifications:

• Scale Length: 451mm
• Four double courses & One single string course
• Round back
• Top made of sitka sprucewood
• Sides and back made of lacewood
• Lacewood neck and head
• Cocuswood pegs
• Rosewood fingerboard
• Rosewood bridge
• Medieval Gittern comes with special Nylgut strings
• Incl: Heavy Padded Travel Case and Extra string set

There are several available tuning:

C5 - G4 G4 - D4 D4 - A3 A3 (G3 G3) G4 - D4 D4 - A3 A3 - E3 E3 (D3 D3)