Building an Instrument: Small Kannel

Over six days, participants can engage in a unique hands-on cultural experience. Under the guidance of master craftsmen, one can build a traditional instrument from scratch, explore the history of instrument making, and present their skills at a concert.

From July 1-6, a small kannel (a traditional Estonian string instrument) building camp took place at Sänna Culture Manor in Rõuge Parish. Under the professional guidance of master instrument maker Mihkel Soone, participants built their own folk instrument, historically played in Southern Estonia’s regions of Vana-Võromaa and Setomaa. Camp attendees were able to learn traditional techniques, the building and history of the instrument, and its playing tradition.

The camp used local natural materials, refined over centuries for this purpose. On the final evening of the camp, a concert featuring small kannel music delighted a wider audience, showcasing what has been accomplished during the camp.

The camp welcomed enthusiasts of traditional music from Estonia and abroad. Even those without prior woodworking experience could build an instrument under expert guidance. The camp is unique due to the instructor’s top-notch knowledge and the opportunity to learn instrument playing at both beginner and advanced levels. The cozy and nature-friendly Sänna Culture Manor added a special atmosphere to the event.

Eesti kagunurgale iseloomulik pärandkultuur, mille üheks osaks on pärimuslik pilliehitus ja musitseerimine, jõuab laiema publikuni. Ise pilli meisterdamine ja sellel musitseerimine – mängukogemusest sõltumata – muudab kultuuri kättesaadavaks kõigile.