Dulcimer vs. Zither — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 6, 2024
Dulcimer, a stringed instrument played with hammers, features a trapezoidal shape; whereas, zither is played by plucking or strumming its strings and has a flat, rectangular body.
Difference Between Dulcimer and Zither
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The dulcimer, specifically the hammered dulcimer, is recognized for its distinctive trapezoidal shape and the method of playing, which involves striking strings with small mallets. On the other hand, the zither maintains a flat, often rectangular or slightly oblong body, and is typically played by strumming or plucking the strings directly with the fingers or a plectrum.
Dulcimers generally have multiple strings stretched over a sound box, with each pair or group tuned to the same note to enhance volume and tone. Whereas, zithers can feature anywhere from a few strings to several dozen, each string individually tuned to contribute to a wide melodic range.
The sound of a dulcimer is percussive and vibrant, owing to the impact of hammers hitting the strings, creating a dynamic and resonant tone. Conversely, the zither produces a softer, more harp-like sound, which can be melodic or chordal, depending on the arrangement of its strings.
Dulcimers are often associated with folk music and are popular in traditional music genres in Europe and North America. On the other hand, zithers have a broad presence in several cultural music traditions, ranging from European classical music to East Asian folk.
The playing technique of the dulcimer involves coordination between both hands to manage the hammers and sometimes adjust the instrument's bridge for tonal changes. In contrast, zither players often use one hand to pluck the strings while the other might stabilize the instrument or alter string pitches subtly during performance.
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Comparison Chart
Shape
Trapezoidal
Flat, rectangular
Playing Method
Played with hammers
Plucked or strummed with fingers/plectrum
Sound Production
Percussive, vibrant
Softer, harp-like
Musical Association
Folk music in Europe and North America
Varied, including classical and folk
Technique Requirement
Coordinating hammers, adjusting bridges
Plucking strings, stabilizing instrument
Compare with Definitions
Dulcimer
The instrument often has courses of strings tuned in unison for a fuller sound.
She tuned the dulcimer's strings meticulously, ensuring each course resonated perfectly.
Zither
A musical instrument consisting of a flat body with multiple strings stretched across, played by plucking or strumming.
He gently plucked the zither's strings, producing a soothing melody that echoed softly.
Dulcimer
Has a distinctive, resonant tone ideal for melodic and rhythmic compositions.
The dulcimer's resonant tone filled the hall during the concert, showcasing its dynamic capabilities.
Zither
Versatile in its use across various music genres, including classical and folk.
The composer incorporated the zither into his latest symphony, blending traditional and modern elements.
Dulcimer
A stringed musical instrument with strings stretched over a trapezoidal wooden soundboard, played by striking with small hammers.
The musician skillfully played a melody on the dulcimer, drawing a lively tune from its strings.
Zither
Typically has strings tuned individually to expand its melodic range.
Before her performance, she carefully tuned each string of her zither to achieve the perfect pitch.
Dulcimer
Requires a specialized playing technique involving hammers.
Learning to play the dulcimer involves mastering the coordination of striking strings with delicate hammers.
Zither
Played without the need for a bow or hammers, relying on direct finger contact.
The musician’s fingers danced over the zither's strings, creating a complex, captivating sound.
Dulcimer
Traditionally used in folk music, characterized by its bright, percussive sound.
At the folk festival, the band's dulcimer player captivated the audience with rapid, rhythmic melodies.
Zither
Zither (; German: [ˈtsɪtɐ], from the Greek word cithara) is a class of stringed instruments. Historically, the name has been applied to any instrument of the psaltery family, or to an instrument consisting of many strings stretched across a thin, flat body.
Dulcimer
The word dulcimer refers to two types of musical string instruments.
Zither
A musical instrument composed of a flat sound box with about 30 to 40 strings stretched over it and played horizontally with the fingertips, a plectrum, or a bow, or set into vibration by the wind, as in the Aeolian harp.
Dulcimer
A musical instrument with a sounding board or box, typically trapezoid in shape, over which strings of graduated length are stretched, played by plucking or especially by being struck with handheld hammers. The term hammered dulcimer is sometimes used, especially in the US, to distinguish these from plucked instruments such as the Appalachian dulcimer.
Zither
(music) A musical instrument consisting of a flat sounding box with numerous strings placed on a horizontal surface, played with a plectrum or fingertips.
Dulcimer
A narrow, often hourglass-shaped stringed instrument having three or four strings and a fretted fingerboard, typically held flat across the knees while sitting and played by plucking or strumming. Also called Appalachian dulcimer, mountain dulcimer.
Zither
Related or similar instruments in other cultures, such as the Chinese guqin or Norwegian harpeleik; especially any chordophone without a neck, and with strings that pass over the body.
Dulcimer
The hammered dulcimer.
Zither
To play a zither.
Dulcimer
A stringed instrument, with strings stretched across a sounding board, usually trapezoidal, played by plucking on the strings (traditionally with a quill) or by tapping on them (in the case of the hammer dulcimers).
Zither
To make a sound similar to that made by a zither; to move while making such a sound.
Dulcimer
An instrument, having stretched metallic wires which are beaten with two light hammers held in the hands of the performer.
Zither
An instrument of music used in Austria and Germany. It has from thirty to forty wires strung across a shallow sounding-board, which lies horizontally on a table before the performer, who uses both hands in playing on it. [Not to be confounded with the old lute-shaped cittern, or cithern.]
Dulcimer
A stringed instrument used in American folk music; an elliptical body and a fretted fingerboard and three strings
Zither
A musical stringed instrument with strings stretch over a flat sounding box; it is laid flat and played with a plectrum and with fingers
Dulcimer
A trapezoidal zither whose metal strings are struck with light hammers
Common Curiosities
What type of music is best suited for a zither?
Zithers are versatile and suited for a wide range of music types, including classical, folk, and contemporary pieces.
What are the origins of the dulcimer?
The dulcimer has its origins in the Middle Ages in Europe, evolving from earlier stringed instruments.
Are dulcimers and zithers tuned similarly?
No, dulcimers typically have strings tuned in unison or octaves for a richer sound, whereas zithers have individually tuned strings to cover a broader range.
Can the zither be played in an ensemble?
Yes, the zither works well in ensembles, providing melodic and harmonic support.
Is there a difference in the cost of a dulcimer versus a zither?
The cost can vary widely based on craftsmanship, materials, and the specific type of each instrument, but generally, both instruments can range from affordable to quite expensive.
What type of music is best suited for a dulcimer?
Dulcimers are best suited for folk and traditional music, thanks to their vibrant and rhythmic sound.
How difficult is it to learn to play the dulcimer compared to the zither?
Learning the dulcimer can be challenging due to the coordination required to use hammers, whereas the zither may be more straightforward as it involves direct plucking or strumming.
How are dulcimers and zithers constructed?
Dulcimers have a wooden sound box with strings stretched over a trapezoidal frame. Zithers consist of a flat wooden body with strings that may vary in number.
Do dulcimers and zithers require regular maintenance?
Yes, both require regular tuning and occasional string replacement, and the wooden bodies need to be kept in good condition to ensure sound quality.
What accessories are essential for playing the dulcimer?
Essential accessories include hammers for striking the strings and possibly a tuning wrench.
What are the origins of the zither?
The zither also has European origins, with variations found across several countries, each adding its unique touches.
What accessories are essential for playing the zither?
Zither players might need finger picks or a plectrum, along with a tuning wrench.
Can children learn to play the dulcimer or zither easily?
Children can learn either instrument, but the zither might be more accessible due to its simpler playing technique.
What is the typical size range for dulcimers and zithers?
Dulcimers are usually larger due to their trapezoidal shape, whereas zithers can be quite compact, especially smaller versions like the lap zither.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
