Twin Cities Nyckelharpalag
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History
The Twin Cities Nyckelharpalag was organized in 1997 when a few folks in the area who had become enchanted by this Swedish stringed instrument decided to form a group to learn more about it and to promote it to other local enthusiasts. The instrument itself, which dates to the 1300s, is sometimes referred to as a "key fiddle." It has 16 strings, 4 of which are played with a short bow. The remaining 12 are understrings which vibrate sympathetically, giving the nyckelharpa a unique resonating sound. To produce particular notes the player, using the left hand, pushes one of the wooden keys which in turn pushes a tangent against a string to "stop" it.
Members
Today the Twin Cities Nyckelharpalag has 17 members from the metro area and beyond who meet regularly to practice and play--primarily traditional dance tunes from the Uppland area of Sweden, the area where the nyckelharpa and its music has been best preserved. The group participates in Scandinavian dance events and festivals throughout Minnesota, hosts an annual "friends and family" concert and is available for a variety of dance and other musical venues.
