The “Hackbrett”, also known as a hammered dulcimer, is a stringed musical instrument that is played by striking the strings with small hammers. The strings are stretched over a trapezoidal-shaped soundboard and are divided into two sections: the treble, and the bass. The treble section typically has more strings and is played with the right hand, while the bass section has fewer strings and is played with the left hand.
It is a diatonic instrument, meaning that the notes it produces are based on a specific diatonic scale and not chromatic like piano for instance.
The hammers or beaters have padded heads, which allow the player to produce a variety of different tones and dynamics depending on the amount of force used to strike the strings.
The “Hackbrett” is a versatile instrument that can be used to play a wide range of musical styles, including folk, classical, and popular music. It has a unique and distinctive sound that is often used to add a touch of character and interest to a musical arrangement.
The way it works is by using the hammers to strike the strings, the hammers will make the strings vibrate and produce sound waves. These sound waves will then travel through the soundboard and out of the instrument, which is how the sound is projected. The hammers can be used to strike the strings at different points along their length, which produces different pitches.
The “Hackbrett” has a long and rich history in Austria, where it has been played for centuries. The earliest known reference to the instrument in Austria dates back to the 15th century. The instrument was brought to Austria by German and Italian traders, and it quickly became popular among the peasant population.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, was primarily used as an accompaniment instrument for folk music and dances. It was also commonly used in religious music and in the courts of noblemen and aristocrats. The instrument’s unique sound and versatility made it a popular choice for both solo and ensemble performances.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the “Hackbrett” experienced a decline in popularity, as it was replaced by the piano in many musical settings. However, the instrument continued to be played in rural areas and among folk musicians, who kept the tradition alive.
The “Hackbrett” is essentially a resonance box with strings strung above it that are played with wooden sticks, “Ruten” or “Schlägerli” in German. One note can be played onE up to five strings. Choruses are the name given to such chords.
A middle bridge that divides the strings in a specific ratio is frequently found on these choirs. Pure fifth results, for instance, from dividing a string in the ratio 2:3. This could mean, for instance, that a C is located on the bridge’s right side and a G is located on its left, or the opposite. For the best results, you should hit the strings three to four centimeters from the bridges.
