Lyre
DEFINITION
An ancient instrument related to the harp. The lyre does not have the triangular shape of the modern harp, but instead the strings are strung perpendicularly to the soundbox, with two arms connecting the soundbox to the yoke. The yoke supports the strings opposite the soundbox. This instrument was used in ancient Greece and Rome.<br><br>The lower central member of a grand piano; it carries the pedals and pedal rods. The slanting braces have been called "monkey tails" ever since the days when these were ornately carved and convoluted wooden features.