List of musical instruments by Hornbostel–Sachs number: 31 explained

This is a list of instruments by Hornbostel-Sachs number, covering those instruments that are classified under 31 under that system. This category includes all instruments consisting of a simple string bearer and strings. An additional resonator may be present, but it is not integral, so removing it should not destroy the instrument - the resonator must not be supporting the strings.

This category includes musical bows, zithers and some keyboard instruments like the piano and harpsichord.

These instruments may be classified with a suffix, based on how the strings are caused to vibrate.

• 4: Hammers or beaters
• 5: Bare hands and fingers
• 6: Plectrum
• 7: Bowing
  • 71: Using a bow
  • 72: Using a wheel
  • 73: Using a ribbon
• 8: Keyboard
• 9: Using a mechanical drive

List

• Clavichord
• Harpsichord
• Musical bow
  • Carimba
• Piano
• Zither
  • Gayageum
  • Overtone zither
• Aeolian harp
• Koto
• Cymbalum
• Hammered dulcimer

References

• Classification of Musical Instruments: Translated from the Original German by Anthony Baines and Klaus P. Wachsmann. Erich M.. von Hornbostel. Curt Sachs . The Galpin Society Journal. 14. March 1961. 3–29. 10.2307/842168. Galpin Society. 842168.