The origins of the plucked psaltery are to be found in the Middle East in ancient Mesopotamia. It is believed to be about three thousand years old and is mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the Book of Psalms. Knowledge of the psaltery was probably brought to Europe by returning crusaders and it had become popular by the Renaissance.

The origins of the plucked psaltery are to be found in the Middle East in ancient Mesopotamia. It is believed to be about three thousand years old and is mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the Book of Psalms. Knowledge of the psaltery was probably brought to Europe by returning crusaders and it had become popular by the Renaissance.

Printed psaltery music is shaped just like the psaltery but a bit smaller so that it will fit under the strings. To play a psaltery, the musicis placed under the strings, and the lines on the music are line up with the strings on the psaltery. Start with the string directly above the note printed on the music sheet. Follow the line from that note up or down to the second note, pluck it and go on to the next note. With a little timing a recognizable tune comes forth as you follow the music.The plucked psaltery is the "connect-the-dot" book of musical instruments.

Simplicity and ease of playing make the plucked psaltery a perfect musical instrument for beginners be they 4 or 104. It is truly thrilling and inspirational to watch the excitement and wonder on the faces of children as they play a familiar tune and realize that THEY did it!  But, make no mistake; this is not an instrument just for children.

This instrument allows even the most “musically challenged” person to make music. It is truly a musical instrument that anyone can play and remember, when you are playing a plucked psaltery, you are carrying on a tradition that began about three thousand years ago!

While they may appear to be relatively simplistic in design and playing,  Archie Smith Plucked Psalteries are real instruments. They are quality, long-lasting stringed instruments, not disposable toys. The standard model is made of solid oak and oak laminate with various appliqués of black walnut veneer. Other models are available with oak or walnut sides and various fine solid domestic and exotic tops and backs (including various burl and highly figured woods). Rosettes and various sound hole shapes are also available. Each instrument has a multicoated lacquer finish for beauty and durability. Customs orders are welcome.

Each Archie Smith Plucked Psaltery comes with a starter set of 20 songs, a pick, tuning tool, plus instruction, care, tuning and lyric sheets packed in a sturdy box. Additional music sets are available. The standard plucked psaltery is $90, and the price for other models depends on the materials used (prices are subject to change without notice).