külgahelates

Külgahelates refers to a traditional Estonian folk instrument, essentially a type of mouth-harp or jaw harp. It belongs to a broader category of instruments known as 'mrumph' or 'jew's harp' found across many cultures worldwide. The name "külgahelates" itself is derived from Estonian words relating to cold and resonating, hinting at its metallic nature and the way sound is produced.

The instrument typically consists of a flexible metal reed attached to a frame. The player places the frame against their teeth or lips, and by plucking the reed with a finger, they create a vibration. The player's mouth cavity then acts as a resonator, and by changing the shape of their mouth and tongue, they can alter the overtones and create a melody. This manipulation of the vocal tract allows for a surprisingly complex range of sounds and musical expression.

Külgahelates were historically used for personal entertainment, in folk music ensembles, and sometimes for communication or ritualistic purposes. Their portability and simple construction made them accessible to many. While their widespread use has declined with the advent of modern instruments, they remain an important part of Estonian musical heritage and are still played by enthusiasts and folk musicians. Efforts are ongoing to preserve and promote the playing of this unique instrument.