What term describes instruments that produce sound by vibrating strings stretched between fixed points?

The term that describes instruments producing sound by vibrating strings stretched between fixed points is referred to as chordophones. This classification includes a variety of instruments, such as violins, guitars, and harps. The defining characteristic of chordophones is that they rely on string vibration to generate sound, and the sound can be produced by plucking, bowing, or striking the strings.

In contrast, aerophones are instruments that produce sound by the vibration of air, such as flutes and trumpets. Idiophones generate sound primarily through the vibration of the material itself, like bells and cymbals. Membranophones are those that produce sound through the vibration of a membrane or skin, such as drums. Each of these classifications highlights different methods by which instruments create sound, emphasizing the unique properties and playing techniques associated with chordophones.