The Japanese Zither

Workshop led by Luca Panetti and Asaka Shirai, with support from Chisato Nakahara

Originating in Bavaria and spreading across Europe at the end of the 19th century, the zither was later adopted by French Benedictine monks to accompany liturgical singing. In the 1970s, they began to build it systematically. The zither reached Japan through this “monastic” route: there, thanks to the country’s rich musical tradition, it quickly gained popularity.

This workshop will explore the history and construction of the chord psaltery (zither). Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the instrument’s mechanism, how it works, as well as tuning and maintenance techniques.

Throughout the workshop, attendees will be introduced to different repertoires and will have the chance to experience musical practice on various zither models.

The workshop will be led by Luca Panetti, a pipe organ and harpsichord maker since 1998, with technical assistance from Asaka Shirai, a renowned performer of the chord psaltery.