Lirone

The lirone (or lira da gamba) is the bass member of the lira family of instruments that was popular in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, primarily in Italy. It is a bowed string instrument with between 9 and 16 gut strings and a fretted neck. When played, it is held between the legs in the manner of a cello or viol (viola da gamba).

It was frequently used in Catholic churches, particularly by Jesuits. Despite the resurgence in Baroque instrument performance during the 20th century, only a handful of musicians play the lirone.

The lironi is played by Jo Sceaping on Kate's song The Infant Kiss.