A folk instrument originating in South America born out of contact between the Spaniards and the indigenous people. It is mainly used by peoples of the Andes (Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, etc). Classified as a "frettedlute", the instrument is usually made from wood and the soundbox made from the shell of an armadillo. It has 5 pairs of strings with the 3rd and 5th being in octaves. It is played in a style similar to some forms of flamencoguitar; rapid strumming with intricate rhythmic patterns. Other instruments of the Andes include the Zampoña and Quena.