Rebec demonstration, "Unprofitable Instruments" 2021

Kate McWilliams of "Unprofitable Instruments" gives a demonstration of her rebecs.


The rebec is a type of medieval fiddle that is distinguishable by its shape: a round body that tapers into the neck and culminates in a peg box or disk. Related to the Arabic rabāb and Greek lyra, rebecs were introduced into Europe as early as the eleventh century. They were gradually phased out in the fiftheenth and sixteenth centuries as they were replaced by the violin.

Typically rebecs had three strings, though iconographical examples have from one to five or six. Rebecs are relatively small instruments, and function either as solo instruments, as treble instruments in a mixed consort, or as in a rebec consort with various sizes. They are particularly well suited for playing the surviving medieval dance music.

Rebecs are approachable by people of many skill levels. Violinists will enjoy their familiarity, while non-string players will appreciate their comparative simplicity: only three strings, and a more organic and relaxed playing position than the violin.