Who was Terpander of Lesbos?
Terpander was a master of Greek lyrical music through his simplification of the scales and instrumentation. He was a "proverbially famous singer" that used a kithara for accompaniment. Born in Lesbos, Terpander made his living in Sparta as a musical genius, choir director and music teacher. It is believed that Terpander made the kithara, which is similar to a lyre, but has seven strings. It is also argued by scholars that Terpander created a new method of tuning by seperating the musical intervals of the strings by seven. He was also accredited to having won awards at the 26th Olympiad held in Sparta around 676 AD; and is considered to be one of the greatest musicians who ever lived in his time.
For more insanely in depth information on Terpander see here.
For more insanely in depth information on Terpander see here.
Fact: According to this Britannica.com article, the word "guitar" is supposed to be derived from kithara.
Neat clip on how the Ancient Greeks may have possibly tuned their seven stringed lyres. Watch how the string vibrates when the man starts playing...amazing! |
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