a multistringed, plucked Ukrainian musical instrument. It has been known since the 16th century. The body is circular or oval and shallow; the strings are stretched over the neck (the bass strings, serving as accompaniment) and to the sides on the sounding board (the strings on which the melody is played). The strings are not shortened while playing. A special plectrum is often used to increase the volume. Bandura and kobza players used the bandura to accompany themselves while singing (the kobza is another Ukrainian stringed instrument).

The bandura has been perfected, orchestral versions of the instrument have been made, and bandura ensembles (the most famous of which is the State Honored Choir of Ban-durists of the Ukrainian SSR) have appeared.