Playing the traditional "kanklės" in North-Eastern Aukštaitija (Highlands) : (in the second half of 19th century - 20th century)

ENThe „kanklės“ of northeastern Aukštaitija (Highland) were spread in the districts of Biržai, Rokiškis and Kupiškis. The use of this musical instrument was observed in the traditional culture until the middle of the 20th century. As the presenters no longer possess this kind of instrument, it is possible to discuss it only on the basis of informantsi stories, museum exhibits, the data collected during the interwar period and the ethno-instrumental expeditions. The „kanklės“ of northeastern Aukštaitija are assigned to the first type. This type contains the most archaic, skiff or coffin-shaped instruments, which are sculpted or carved from a single piece of wood, painted black and have 5 or, though rarely, 4, 8, or 9 strings. The main repertoire consisted of instrumental glees. It is believed that the initial purpose of „kanklės“ in northeastern Aukštaitija was ritual, magical, and that of meditation (contemplation), which was identified later. After the changes in traditional ways of life, collapse of cultural frames, the status and the image of the „kanklės“ and „kanklės“ players changed beyond recognition in the second half of the 19th century and the 20th century. The symbolic and mythical role of „kanklės“ and „kanklės“ players disappeared together with the changes in cultural situation. [From the publication]