The instrument
A history of the cimbalom: from medieval zithers to the concert stage
How a portable board zither became a concert instrument with 133 strings and a pedal. A short history of the cimbalom in Europe and in Slovakia.
Articles
Everything you want to know about the cimbalom
Practical articles without the academic ballast. We add to them as we go. If a topic you need is missing, write to us.
The instrument
The instrument
What is a cimbalom and how does it work
The cimbalom is a struck string instrument with over a hundred strings, played with two mallets. How its sound is made, how it is built, and how it differs from a piano.
Practical guides
Practical guides
Cimbalom mallets: types, grip and where to buy them
Mallets are to a cimbalist what the bow is to a violinist. What types exist, how the Moravian and piano grips differ, and where to buy mallets in Slovakia and Czechia.
Practical guides
How a cimbalom is tuned
A cimbalom has over a hundred strings, which makes tuning a bigger topic than on other instruments. When you can touch it up yourself, and when to call a tuner.
Practical guides
How much does a cimbalom cost: a 2026 price guide
A new concert cimbalom starts at roughly €3,500 and climbs from there; second-hand instruments go for far less. What new and used cimbaloms cost, and what to watch out for.
Learning to play
Learning to play
Where to learn to play the cimbalom
In Slovakia the cimbalom is taught at art schools, conservatoires and university level. An overview of the routes open to children, adult beginners and future professionals.
Live music
Live music
A cimbalom band for your wedding: what it costs and how to choose one
Cimbalom music is a classic at Slovak weddings. What makes up the price, what to ask a band, and how to book a date so nothing catches you out.