Lyre, zithers, and harps Organologists say that the lyre from different periods and areas are all members of the zither family. For your information, organologists specialize in the study of musical instruments history. The zither gamily consists of many stringed instruments like the guitar, lute, and kantele. It has the same range as the mandocello and cello and is tuned one octave lower than the tenor banjo. Four-string banjos can be for choral accompaniment and single string tune playing. These can also be for duo style which is a mixture of the rhythm chords and single string tremolo and for chord melody style. Basics of playing The very first step of playing the mandolin is to learn how to tune it because you cannot produce the right melody without proper tuning. Use a strap or place it on your lap when playing. For beginners, it is suggested for you to use a pick or plectrum. Lightly hold it between your thumb and pointer with its pointed end facing the strings. The vibration of the strings also causes vibration of the soundboard. It has a much larger area than the strings which means that is also produces a louder sound. Sound waves are created coming from the back and front panels as the soundboard is vibrating. The sound box serves as a resonant cavity and reflects the sound waves produced. The famous song entitled Three Camps was used for waking American troops and The Fatigue was for ordering the soldiers to guard the quarters. Its head was primarily made of calf hide. Marion Evans invented the plastic drum head in 1956. Parts The basic parts of the snare drum are the rim, head, drumsticks, snare switch, tension screws, snares, and stand. Naturally, it is created from tree trunks and limbs hollowed by termites. It produces a resonant low sound with complicated rhythmic pattern. This makes it suitable for chant and song accompaniment. It is also said that it is the sound of Australia, the voice of the earth, and probably the world s most ancient musical instrument.