Lira (hurdy-gurdy). Folk string instrument (see Folk musical instruments). It was introduced in Ukraine from the West and spread rapidly during the 15th century. The sound is produced by cranking a rosined wheel against strings within the instrument. Most frequently, the lira has three strings; the two lower strings are monotonic, and the higher string leads the melody. The instrument was played commonly in Ukraine until the 20th century by itinerant musicians called lirnyks.


Encyclopedia of Ukraine