The University Museum

The Instruments

Like songs, musical instruments can also tell us details about the people who produced them. The physical qualities of instruments bear witness to where, when, and by whom each instrument was made, where it has traveled, and how it has been cared for and played. Such knowledge can reveal many traits about an individual or a group of people, such as their economic status, the kinds of technology at their disposal, and even what they consider useful or beautiful.

Find out more about these instruments

• Banjo - When Mama Goes to Quarreling
• Mandolin - Form Follows Function
• Guitar - Over the Waves
• Fiddle Soldier's Joy, Jennie Jenkins
• Dulcimer - I Wish I Had Someone to Love Me