Top 10 Most Popular Medieval Instruments in Medieval England

As the enchanting melodies of medieval England filled the air, a rich tapestry of musical instruments captivated the hearts and minds of its people.



From lively village festivities to grand courtly gatherings, these instruments brought life and joy to every occasion.

Let’s embark on a musical journey through time, exploring the top 10 most popular medieval instruments that resonated within the borders of medieval England.


1. Pipe and Tabor

The playful combination of the pipe and tabor, featuring a small flute-like pipe and a handheld drum, set the rhythm for merry dances and jovial celebrations.


2. Hurdy-Gurdy

The unique sound of the hurdy-gurdy, a string instrument with a rotating wheel, filled the air with its mesmerizing melodies, providing a delightful accompaniment to medieval troubadours and minstrels.


3. Harp

The elegant and ethereal harp, with its delicate strings and heavenly sound, graced the courts and castles of medieval England, adding a touch of enchantment to noble gatherings.


4. Lute

The lute, a plucked string instrument resembling a guitar, became a beloved companion to medieval musicians, known for its expressive melodies and versatile playing techniques.


5. Psaltery

The psaltery, with its strings plucked or struck by small hammers, produced a celestial sound that resonated in churches and monastic settings, enriching sacred music.


6. Shawm

The vibrant and resounding tones of the shawm, a double-reed woodwind instrument, brought life to medieval processions and outdoor festivities, captivating audiences with its commanding presence.


7. Organetto

The portability and melodic charm of the organetto, a small portable organ, made it a popular choice for both secular and sacred music in medieval England, adding grandeur to celebrations and worship.


8. Recorder

The sweet and melodious tones of the recorder, a wooden flute-like instrument, echoed through medieval halls and chambers, accompanying dances, courtly entertainments, and even religious services.


9. Bagpipes

The robust and distinctive sound of bagpipes, with their droning and melodic pipes, resonated across medieval landscapes, evoking a sense of tradition and festivity.


10. Tambourine

The jingling rhythms of the tambourine, with its metal disks and lively percussion, added a spirited touch to medieval music, enlivening dances and processions with its joyful presence.



As we delve into the melodies of medieval England, we discover a vibrant world of musical expression through these top 10 most popular medieval instruments.

From the joyous sounds of the pipe and tabor to the celestial resonance of the harp, each instrument played a vital role in the cultural fabric of medieval society.

So, let us immerse ourselves in the enchanting echoes of the past and appreciate the rich musical heritage that once resounded in the medieval halls, castles, and streets of England.