What is a nyckelharpa?
The nyckelharpa is a Swedish keyed fiddle and is considered Sweden's national instrument.
- Home
- Fact categories
- Nyckelharpa Facts
Nyckelharpa Facts
Nyckelharpa facts and facts about nyckelharpas.
10 facts on this shelf
How old is the nyckelharpa?
A nyckelharpa appears on a church gate on the Swedish island of Gotland dated to about 1350.
How many strings does a nyckelharpa have?
A modern nyckelharpa has 16 strings.
What does "nyckelharpa" mean?
"Nyckel" means "key" in Swedish.
Who revived the nyckelharpa?
Eric Sahlström helped revive the nyckelharpa.
How is a nyckelharpa played?
A nyckelharpa is played with a short bow.
How do you change notes on a nyckelharpa?
Nyckelharpa players change notes by pressing wooden keys.
Is there a nyckelharpa festival?
An annual nyckelharpa gathering is held in Österbybruk, Sweden.
What are sympathetic strings?
A nyckelharpa has sympathetic strings that vibrate on their own when other strings are played.
Where in Sweden is the nyckelharpa most associated with?
The nyckelharpa is especially associated with the Uppland region of Sweden.