The lute is a string musical instrument, which, in Greek musical tradition, is often used to accompany the Violin, the Lyra, or other instruments. It is similar to the Oud but has a longer neck*, and frets. It is typically tuned in E-A-D-G, from bottom to top, whereas the mainland version is generally tuned in A-D-G-C (4,3,2,1). The Lute is quite popular on the islands and especially Crete, where it accompanies the Cretan Lyra. A close relative is the Lavta, also known as Politiko (Constantinople) Lute.