ofkümmetel

Ofkümmetel is a traditional Finnish folk instrument. It is a type of plucked string instrument, often described as a zither or a lyre. Historically, ofkümmetel was made from wood and typically had a small number of strings, usually between four and ten. The body of the instrument was often hollow, acting as a resonator.

The playing technique for ofkümmetel involved plucking the strings with the fingers or a plectrum. Melodies were produced by stopping the strings against a fretboard or by pressing the strings down with the fingers of the left hand while plucking with the right. The sound produced is generally described as delicate and clear.

Ofkümmetel was commonly used in folk music for accompanying songs and for solo performances. Its presence was particularly noted in rural areas of Finland, where it was part of everyday musical life. Like many traditional instruments, the popularity of ofkümmetel has seen periods of decline and revival. Modern luthiers and folk musicians have contributed to its preservation and ongoing use in contemporary Finnish folk music. The instrument's exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, but it is believed to have ancient roots, possibly influenced by similar instruments from neighboring cultures.