During the Renaissance period, many instruments were developed or modified to respond to the evolution of musical ideas, and they presented new possibilities for composers and musicians to explore. Some of the most prominent instruments of the Renaissance period include:
-
Lute: A relative of the guitar, the lute was the most important instrument for secular music during the Renaissance.
-
Viol (Viola da Gamba): A bowed string instrument that was popular in the Renaissance period.
-
Harpsichord: A plucked-string keyboard instrument that was popular in the Renaissance period.
-
Recorder: A wind instrument that was commonly used during the Renaissance period.
-
Gittern and mandore: Forerunners of modern instruments including the mandolin and guitar, these instruments were used throughout Europe.
-
Brass instruments: Brass instruments in the Renaissance were traditionally played by professionals. Some of the more common brass instruments that were played include the cornetto, the sackbut, and the trumpet.
-
Percussion instruments: Some Renaissance percussion instruments include the triangle, the Jew’s harp, the tambourine, the bells, cymbals, the rumble-pot, and various kinds of drums.
Overall, the lute, viol, harpsichord, recorder, and brass instruments were among the most prominent instruments of the Renaissance period.
