Instruments

Lyre or Hearpe

The lyre is the oldest known instrument in the British Isles. It was used by the Celts, Vikings, and later by scops - old English bards - in the great halls of Anglo Saxon kings. An artifact from one of these instruments was found in the Island of Skye and is thought to date from around the 5th century b.c.e. It was most commonly played in Scandinavia, England, Scotland, and Ireland. Many modern instruments resemble this type of lyre, such as the Finnish Jouhikko and the Welsh Crwth. 

Lute

More music was written for the lute in the 16th century than all other instruments combined. Professional lutenists shared the same status as famous artists like Michaelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. By the year 1500, the lute had six courses (pairs of strings) and by the end of the 17th century had as many as 14 courses and could play five octaves. Stravinski is quoted as saying that the lute "is perhaps the most perfect instrument of all."  

Komuz

The earliest documentation of the komuz is from the 6th century b.c.e. Images of the instrument appear on ancient Egyptian tombs, iconography from the Middle East, Central Asia (where it is still very popular), and even in a 13th century Spanish manuscript which contains images of Muslims, Jews, and Christians making music and singing songs together. 

Oud

The oud is so old that its origins have been lost in the mists of time. The most ancient stories about its development come from the Koran and from ancient Rome. The oud was brought to the western world by Moors around the year 711 and was likely  brought to various parts of Europe by Crusaders. It may have even been played in Scandinavian lands long before it was played by Christians because vikings travelled and traded in the Meditarranean. It is one of few instruments so ancient that is still played and has never fallen out of popularity.