How the pluriarc makes its sound
In the Hornbostel–Sachs system, which classifies instruments by how they produce sound, the pluriarc belongs to the lutes: strings run parallel to a soundboard and along a neck – the family of the guitar, violin, sitar and oud.
More broadly it is one of the chordophones (string instruments), where sound comes from vibrating strings, amplified by a resonating body.
Press play above and watch the spectrum: the evenly spaced peaks are harmonics, and their relative strength is what gives the instrument its character.
From Wikipedia
The pluriarc, also called paata, mapu, luku, kissanga, and bow lute is a stringed musical instrument of West Africa, classified as a type of lute.
It has a hollow body and several curved, pliable necks made of reeds. The strings stretch from the necks to the bridge, which stands approximately 1.5 inches (38 mm) above the body.
Other lutes
Frequently asked questions
What does a pluriarc sound like?
As one of the lutes, its sound comes from the way strings run parallel to a soundboard and along a neck.
What type of instrument is the pluriarc?
It is classified as lutes (Hornbostel–Sachs 321.1).