Chrotta

The Chrotta, also known as the crwth, is a bowed string instrument from Wales, also played in parts of Ireland. It is known for its unique design and ancient origins, making it a significant part of Celtic folk music traditions. The instrument is believed to be one of the oldest bowed instruments, and possibly a predecessor to the modern violin. The Chrotta features six gut strings and is played by drawing a bow across the strings, creating a sound that blends well with other folk instruments such as the harp and hornpipe.

History of the Chrotta

The Chrotta has a long and storied history, with references to its use dating as far back as the 6th century CE. The earliest mention of the Chrotta comes from the writings of Venantius Fortunatus, who described the “Chrotta Britanna” around 609 A.D., indicating its British origins. The instrument has evolved over the centuries, initially starting as a simple three-stringed instrument before transitioning to the more complex six-stringed version that became widely used in medieval Welsh music.

The Chrotta’s construction and playing style made it unique among early bowed instruments. Its popularity persisted for centuries, primarily in Wales, where it became a key instrument alongside the harp in the musical hierarchy. Despite its decline in use compared to the more popular harp, the Chrotta remained an important cultural symbol, especially in the aristocratic and bardic traditions of medieval Wales. The instrument was not only played for entertainment but was also used ceremonially, often as part of examinations to qualify as a master musician.

Origin of the Name

The name Chrotta (also spelled “crwth”) is of Welsh origin, derived from Proto-Celtic, referring to a “swelling” or “bulge,” likely in reference to the shape of the instrument. The English name “crowd” (or “rote”) was used historically, and there are related words in various Celtic languages that also denote bowed or stringed instruments. The term “crwth” is notable for being one of the few English loanwords from Welsh that uses the letter W as a vowel.

Physical Description and Playing Technique

The Chrotta consists of a simple box-like structure, carved from maple or sycamore wood, and is topped with a flat, fretless fingerboard. The body features six strings, which are tuned to gg’c’c”d’d”. Two of these strings run parallel to the fingerboard but do not cross it, acting as fixed-pitch drones. These drone strings can be plucked with the thumb, while the remaining four strings are bowed to produce melodic lines. The instrument also features a distinctive bridge design, where one leg of the bridge passes through a soundhole to rest on the back of the instrument, providing additional stability.

One characteristic feature of the Chrotta is that it is designed to play all six strings simultaneously, producing a rich harmonic sound. The Chrotta was traditionally played by bracing the lower end of the instrument against the chest, and it was often supported with a strap around the neck. Players use a horsehair bow to draw across the strings, producing a tone that was described in medieval times as having the richness of “a hundred voices.” The Chrotta’s unique design and playing style make it capable of producing a range of sounds, from droning harmonies to melodic solos.

Cultural Significance

The Chrotta played a significant role in Welsh musical culture, often used alongside the harp and timpan as one of the three main string instruments in the Welsh Triads, a collection of medieval Welsh literature that preserved the lore and traditions of the time. The instrument was considered an important part of aristocratic music, with a specialized repertoire and a structured examination process for those wishing to achieve mastery. The Chrotta’s distinctive sound was seen as emblematic of Welsh musical heritage, providing a link to the past and a reminder of the region’s rich cultural history.

Playing Techniques and Tunings

The Chrotta features several different tuning options, and historical accounts suggest that tunings were flexible, often depending on the preferences of the player or the requirements of the specific piece being performed. One common tuning involved octaves and paired fifths, while another tuning, reported by William Bingley, featured drones tuned in octaves with paired fifths for the other strings. Due to its flat bridge, the Chrotta is designed for all six strings to be sounded at once, making it unique compared to modern bowed instruments like the violin, which has a curved bridge for selective string playing.

The bowing technique used for the Chrotta was crucial in producing its characteristic sound. The bow, made from wood and horsehair, is drawn across all six strings simultaneously, while the player uses their left thumb to pluck the drone strings, adding rhythmic and harmonic complexity. The Chrotta’s sound is softer and rougher than the modern violin, giving it a rustic charm well-suited to traditional Welsh melodies and folk tunes.

How to Play the Chrotta

To play the Chrotta, the musician typically braces the lower end of the instrument against their chest, using a neck strap for additional support. The left hand is used to manipulate the strings over the fingerboard, while the right hand operates the bow. The player uses their thumb to pluck the two drone strings, creating a layered, polyphonic texture that enriches the sound. This playing style allows the Chrotta to produce multiple harmonic tones simultaneously, creating a full-bodied sound that blends well with other traditional folk instruments.

Maintenance of the Chrotta

As with other string instruments, the Chrotta requires regular maintenance to preserve its quality and tone:

• String Care: The gut strings should be checked regularly for signs of wear and replaced as needed. Gut strings are susceptible to environmental changes and may need to be adjusted frequently.
• Wood Preservation: The Chrotta should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent the wood from warping or cracking. Excess humidity or temperature changes can significantly affect the instrument’s structural integrity.
• Professional Maintenance: Consulting a qualified luthier is recommended for any repairs or adjustments, particularly when it comes to tuning the metal harp wrest-pins, which require specialized tools.