Since October 2018, talharpa (a traditional Swedish and Estonian bowed lyre) lessons have been taking place at the Museum of the Coastal Swedes. The instructor is Liisa Koemets. Once a month, enthusiasts from Haapsalu and Hiiumaa gather to learn to play the talharpa. As the old song stanza says, “Everyone has their own instrument, on which I play tiri-lill.” The talharpa master at the Museum of the Coastal Swedes is Algor Streng from Vormsi Island. For more information, please contact lydia@aiboland.ee.

Liisa Koemets introduces herself as follows: “I graduated from the Viljandi Culture Academy in the field of traditional music. During my studies, I became acquainted with the talharpa, and this unique-sounding and characterful instrument still captivates me. Despite appearing relatively primitive, the instrument surprises with its fascinating nuances of sound and versatile playing possibilities. Initially, mastering the instrument requires patience, both in tuning and in coaxing beautiful tones from the strings with the first plucks. Currently, I teach talharpa at Vormsi Basic School and traditional violin at Nõo Music School. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to teach adults and children at the talharpa summer camp on Vormsi Island for the past three years.”