What is a Bouzouki?

A bouzouki is a long-necked string instrument that is central to the traditional and popular music of Greece. It belongs to the lute family and typically features a rounded wooden body, a long fretted neck, and pairs of metal strings known as courses. Modern bouzoukis usually have three or four courses of strings, which are tuned in pairs and played together to create a bright, ringing sound.

The bouzouki is played by plucking the strings with a plectrum, allowing musicians to perform both fast melodic passages and rhythmic accompaniment. Its metallic tone and strong projection make it well suited for lively dance music and expressive solos. Players often use techniques such as tremolo picking, slides, and ornamentation to create flowing melodies and energetic rhythmic patterns.

The instrument plays an important role in Greek musical traditions, particularly in styles such as rebetiko and laïkó, where it often serves as the main melodic instrument. Over time, the bouzouki has also influenced other instruments and musical styles, including Irish folk music, where a modified version of the bouzouki is commonly used to accompany traditional songs and instrumental tunes.