Based on a number of 15th C examples, the string drum is tuned in open D and the strings are struck with a stick, giving a percussive chord . Often shown being played with a tabor pipe, it can give a different and interesting sound to any ensemble. These drums have spruce soundboards with walnut ends, cherry sides and back, maple bridges, ebony violin pegs and nylon guitar strings. This is a smaller version of the string drum, with a 16″ scale length and a French polished finish.