Making a Kantele

This is an excerpt of the video diary from my newly updated Kantele making CD-rom, that has plans for 5,10, 12,15 piccolo and electric kanteles as well as information on setting up, playing and case building.
I also have downloads available if you just want plans, though the CD has much more to offer.
thelyreshop.etsy.com

[@michaeljking]

the initial tune is "little acorns" but the tune from 30 seconds in is an improvisation of mine that I demonstrate on the 5th part of my Kantele playing guide, in the middle...its a simple piece played using on hand that is repeated, I show it as a minor tune first and then in a major tuning to show how different small changes make to a piece. Thanks for your comments!!

[@michaeljking]

I will be filming a special video "how to make a simple 10 string kantele" later in the year the plans for that will be free to download

[@michaeljking]

They are Zither/autoharp pins, Mine are made in Germany, Piano/harp supply shops have them.

[@michaeljking]

It really depends on the type of timber, but if you are making an open back one then keep the soundboard around 1/4"/6mm to begin with and experiment. The open backed kantele should be thought as working more like a piano than a guitar.

[@michaeljking]

The Cd is available from my site is has all the plans videos and info. Alternatively the cheapest way is to go to the lulu website and download the Kantele pdf making guide and whichever set of plans you want, this works out nearly a quarter of the price of the full Cd-rom.

[@michaeljking]

Pine carved instruments work better with pegs like a violin, otherwise you need to add hardwood plugs to the hole area.

[@liganightingale5042]

Is it possible to buy that instrument and how much it could cost?

[@michaeljking]

Liga Untike These are for sale on my website at www.michaeljking.com/kantele.htm

[@michaeljking]

+Liga Untike They are for sale in stock in my etsy shop now www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Thelyreshop