VIHUELA Meaning and
Definition
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A vihuela refers to a musical instrument that belongs to the plucked string family. It is a small, gut-stringed instrument with a rounded, pear-shaped body and a flat back similar to a guitar. The term "vihuela" comes from the Spanish word “viola,” meaning "viol" or "viola da gamba." It was prominently played during the Renaissance and Baroque periods in Spain and Italy.
The vihuela typically features five or six double courses of strings placed close together, usually tuned to the interval of a fourth or fifth. While it shares some similarities with the guitar, the vihuela has a distinctive sound due to its different construction and string materials. The gut strings offer a warm and resonant tone, characteristic of early stringed instruments.
During the Renaissance period, the vihuela was a popular instrument in the courtly and noble circles, often played solo or for accompanying vocal music. It was also frequently used alongside voices or other instruments in ensembles, creating a harmonious blend of sounds. As musical styles evolved, the vihuela gradually fell out of favor and eventually disappeared from mainstream music.
Today, the vihuela has experienced a resurgence of interest among early music enthusiasts and scholars. It is a subject of study and performance, played by musicians specializing in historically informed performances. With its unique timbre and historical significance, the vihuela continues to contribute to the appreciation and exploration of music from the Renaissance and Baroque eras.
Common Misspellings for VIHUELA
- cihuela
- bihuela
- gihuela
- fihuela
- vuhuela
- vjhuela
- vkhuela
- vohuela
- v9huela
- v8huela
- viguela
- vibuela
- vinuela
- vijuela
- viuuela
- viyuela
- vihyela
- vihhela
- vihjela
- vihiela
Etymology of VIHUELA
The word "vihuela" has its origins in medieval Spain. It is derived from the Old Spanish term "viuola", which itself comes from the Latin word "vitula". "Vitula" originally referred to a stringed musical instrument, and it is believed to have been borrowed into Spanish from the Gothic language. Over time, the word "viuola" evolved into "vihuela" and became associated with a specific type of plucked string instrument popular during the Renaissance. The vihuela played a significant role in Spanish and Portuguese music during the 15th and 16th centuries.
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