The project began after the recent Baltic Psaltery workshop at Tartu College in Toronto. After my wife, Laani, put out a call to the Estonian-Canadian community for a spare kannel (the Estonian name for the stringed instrument known as the Baltic Psaltery), our friend, VEMU archivist and Eesti Elu columnist Keila Kopvillem, assisted in the search. Epp Aruja generously donated a kannel in her possession, which had been stored away for many years.
The kannel came to us in an orange, custom-fitted case that preserved its condition well. It was handmade, though its specific maker remains a mystery. This instrument was visually intriguing, with seven holes drilled into the soundboard in a hexagonal shape and a comfortable overall shape. However, some care and effort would be needed to sound the notes out once again as had been done before. We were curious if fresh strings would result in a brighter sound.
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