Kankles are the oldest and most archaic of Lithuanian string instruments. They were thought to be associated with death. Lithuanians believed that in order to make sonorous kankles, the wood from which they were crafted had to be cut from a mature forest on the day that a loved one died. As the household mourned, the wood acquired depth and soul. Playing kankles was very much like meditating and was thought to protect the musician from death, disease and accidents. In general, only men played kankles and crafted their own instruments. In order to pass on old traditions, they explained the secrets of kankles crafting and playing to younger generations.

The body of the kankles has a trapezoidal form and is carved from a single piece of linden, maple, ash or alder wood. The instrument's wider end is cut diagonally. A fir wood top decorated with four-pointed, five-pointed or six-pointed stars and other patterns is fastened to the body. A metal bar to which metal or catgut strings are anchored was set in the narrow end. Wooden pegs fitted in the wide end regulate the tension of the strings whose number varies from five to twelve.

Kankles were played using the fingers or a wooden pick. They could be classified into three types according to number of strings, playing technique and repertoire: Northeastern Aukstaitija (type I), Western Aukstaitija and Zemaitija (II) or Suvalkija (III).

Copyright ©, 1996 Lithuanian Folk Culture Centre.


Vladas Kazlauskas was born on the 30 April, 1934 in Siauliai, Lithuania. Graduated from Siauliai Pedagogical University, studying Lithuanian language and literature. Later studied orchestra conducting at Klaipeda faculties of Vilnius Music Academy. A member of folk art society, participated in annual exhibitions.

Vladas Kazlauskas has been making Lithuanian folk stringed instruments for 15 years. Different types of “kankles” represent various regions of Lithuania. The instrument is made from different wood – maple, birch, alder, etc., its top from resonant white deal. The pegs for turning strings are produced from ash-tree or oak. They can be metallic as well, characteristic of Suvalkieciu region. “Basedle” is one more folk instrument. It is like a contraboss but smaller with just 3 strings.

Note: These instrument are delivered within 4-5 weeks.

Note: Instruments are sold without carrying cases.

*Click on the picture to enlarge it.