The Lute

The lute is a plucked string instrument that [blank] a central role in European music from the late Middle Ages to the Baroque period. Its pear-shaped body and fretted neck [blank] it a versatile instrument, suitable both for solo performance and for ensemble playing. Unlike the modern guitar, the lute usually has courses of paired strings, which produce a richer and more [blank] sound. During the Renaissance, it was highly valued by both professional musicians and amateur players. In the 18th century, however, its popularity gradually [blank] as keyboard instruments became more fashionable. Nevertheless, for those interested in the practice of early music, it remains an important subject of study, and today it is still frequently featured in historically [blank] concerts.