Twin Cities Nyckelharpalag

The Twin Cities Nyckelharpalag was formed in 1998 to promote the music and traditions of the nyckelharpa. The group's music is drawn mostly from the folk repertoire of Uppland, Sweden, where the nyckelharpa tradition has its roots. The Twin Cities Nyckelharpalag enthusiastically carries on Swedish traditions through music, especially when playing for dancing, performing in concert, or just playing tunes together informally. Over the years, the group's performances have included national conferences, educational and social gatherings, church services, outdoor festivals, celebrations and dances.

The nyckelharpa is a traditional Swedish instrument that has been played for more than 600 years. The modern nyckelharpa has 16 strings (4 that are played with a short bow and 12 that are tuned to resonate sympathetically) and 37 wooden keys, which, when pushed inward, alter the pitch of the string. The nyckelharpa sounds something like a violin, but with more resonance.

The Twin Cities Nyckelharpalag is a 501c(3) nonprofit educational organization based in Minneapolis/Saint Paul, Minnesota. Membership is open. For more information, visit the American Nyckelharpa Association at www.nyckelharpa.org or the Twin Cities Nyckelharpalag at nyckelharpalag.googlepages.com.

Submitted by Cheryl Paschke and Marilyn McGriff

February 2009