What Is a Lyre?

The lyre is a string instrument that dates back to 1400 BC in Greece. It is known for its use in Greek classical antiquity and later periods. The lyre is similar to a lap harp, but differences in construction place it into a different family of instruments.

What does a lyre symbolize?

As an attribute of Apollo, the god of prophecy and music, the lyre to the ancient Greeks symbolized wisdom and moderation. Greek lyres fell into two types, exemplified by the lyra and kithara.

What was a lyre used for?

The lyre was played either alone or as an accompaniment to singing or lyric poetry at all manner of occasions such as official banquets, symposia (private drinking parties), religious ceremonies, funerals, and in musical competitions such as those held at the great Panathanaia, Pythia, and Karneia festivals.