Klaaskuulikesed

Klaaskuulikesed refers to a type of Estonian folk instrument made from wood, similar to a flute or a whistle. The name is derived from the Estonian words for "kitchen" (koda) and "echo" (kuuli keksed), likely due to the instrument's ability to produce a high-pitched, echoing sound when played in the kitchen or other enclosed spaces.

These instruments typically consist of a series of small, cylindrical tubes of varying lengths, often made from wood or metal, which are blown over to produce different pitches. The tubes are usually fitted with a mouthpiece and may be decorated with intricate carvings or other ornaments.

Klaaskuulikesed were traditionally used in folk music and dance performances in Estonia, often in conjunction with other instruments such as the kannel and the Baltic zither. The instrument's high, whistling sound was well-suited to these performances, and was particularly popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

While klaska-kuulikesed are no longer widely used in traditional music-making, they remain a unique and interesting part of Estonian cultural heritage. Many examples can be found in museums and private collections throughout the country, serving as a reminder of the island's rich musical traditions. The instrument's construction and playing techniques have also influenced the development of other folk instruments in the region.