Cobza

The cobza (also cobsa, cobuz, koboz) is a multi-stringed instrument of the lute family of folk origin popular in Romanian, Moldovan and contemporary Hungarian folk music. The cobza is a pear-shaped string instrument with a short neck and wooden body, traditionally used to provide rhythm and harmony in folk music. It can be played solo or in groups and is usually strummed with a folded goose feather. It is considered the oldest accompaniment instrument in the region comprising Romania and Moldova. The usage of a related musical instrument in Hungary may date back to at least the 16th century, possibly arriving with the Magyar tribes as early as the 9th and 10 centuries. The usage of the modern Romanian cobza in Hungary started following the Táncház movement of the late 20th century.

It is distinct from the Ukrainian Kobza, an instrument of different construction and origin.