What is a bouzouki instrument?

If you are a music lover, especially unique and versatile sounds, you may have heard about the bouzouki. In a survey by an authoritative newspaper in the U.K., more people are learning bouzouki compared to other popular musical instruments. The paper also suggested that the space for unique musical sound is growing in Europe compared to ten years ago.

The origin

Did you know that bouzouki is one of the instruments that have influences for more than five civilizations? Historians have pointed out that what we call bouzouki today is a reflection of cultural interactions between different societies in the past — especially musically. One of the societies that influenced this instrument over the years includes the Turkish and Balkan cultures. Other cultures, such as Irish and Irish musical spaces, have also influenced the growth of bouzouki as an instrument.

Since 100B.C.C., the instrument has changed in its form and structure. The changes — according to professionals — signal changes in the musical world and, more importantly, music in different cultures. Although different cultures and societies have bouzoukis, they are all different. The Irish bouzouki is, for example, different from others — due to Irish musical influence and different playing styles.

Bouzouki and the modern music instrument scene

It is interesting to note that this instrument has survived changes in contemporary music space. In ancient societies, the instrument was purely used on special occasions such as weddings and special ceremonies. In modern times, however, the instrument has been together with other instruments in the musical scene. The first-ever recording of this instrument was in the mid-1920s — in the USA by a musician. Since then, people have used bouzouki in different musical projects.

Since then, major musicians and performers have used bouzouki in different projects for different reasons. One of the reasons is to give their projects a different direction — which is hard to achieve with mainstream projects.

What makes bouzouki a versatile musical instrument?

The tradition

It is interesting to note that major artists in the world are trying to invent a new musical sound every day. One of the most noticeable directions is sampling different ancient sounds. Bouzouki, for example, gives the artists a chance to reinvest a different sound without sounding monotonous. Thanks to bouzoukis, different Americas and Europeans pop songs have redefined the global pop sound.

The playing styles

Bouzouki is not only a unique instrument in terms of sound only but also in the way it is played. Music, like other forms of expression, puts a lot of emphasis on the journey rather than the final product. Bouzouki, therefore, gives the player a chance to express themselves through one of the best playing styles in the world of music.

The overall look is unmatched

In addition to playing styles and the sound, people view musical instruments as a form of expression. Bouzouki is arguably the most beautiful musical instrument in the world. Carrying a bouzouki is, therefore, one of the best forms of expression. Musicians, especially in Europe, have used this instrument as a form of expression.

Why should you pick bouzouki as an instrument?

Some of the reasons why you may consider investing in a bouzouki include the following.

If you want to have a different musical experience

Do you want to move away from digital music? This instrument is a perfect escape route for you. Bouzouki gives you not only another meaning of music but also an ideal experience. Music is one of the most detailed forms of expression, and playing bouzouki is a perfect way to experience music.

Bouzouki is an ideal way to learn music, especially ancient music

Like earlier mentioned, musicians and professionals in the arts scene are on a constant look of a perfect sound from ancient songs and instruments. If you want to have a unique sound, this instrument is an ideal choice. However, you should also try to incorporate other sounds for a versatile sound. 

In conclusion, it is correct to state that this musical instrument is the most versatile musical instrument of our time. The sales for bouzouki have also skyrocketed — emphasizing the importance of this instrument. It will be interesting to study the number of young people picking this instrument in the coming years, even in this age of digital music.