An exhibition at the Šalčininkai Cultural Centre showcases unique Kanklės preserved in the collections of the Lithuanian Theatre, Music and Cinema Museum, providing visitors with an insight into the tradition of this instrument in Lithuania.
“The emergence of Kanklės as a symbol of Lithuanian identity began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, alongside the national revival movement. In 1904, when the press ban was lifted, the kanklės became a symbol of identity,” says Nideta Jarockienė, director of the Lithuanian Theatre, Music and Cinema Museum.
The exhibition, Lithuania Resounding in the Kanklės (Kanklėse skambanti Lietuva), traces the history of the instrument.
“Across the long history of Kanklės, we can identify three waves. One is linked to the national revival at the start of the 20th century. The second, very strong wave – which, incidentally, continues to this day – came through the folk ensemble movement, around the early 1980s. Now, in recent years, we are seeing what appears to be a new resurgence, with Kanklės circles and various forms of teaching,” says ethnomusicologist Daiva Vyčinienė.
The exhibition in Šalčininkai, southeastern Lithuania, features Kanklės made by some of the most prominent craftsmen.
Visitors can also see up close the instrument of Pranas Puskunigis – one of the earliest promoters of Kanklės and founder of the legendary Skriaudžiai ensemble, which is marking its 120th anniversary.
“He was the person who elevated Kanklės to an entirely different level. He established the first Lithuanian Kanklės Society in 1925, published a Kanklės music textbook, and developed a school of music,” Jarockienė says.
From the very beginning of the national revival, Kanklės has held a special place in shaping Lithuanian identity. It became part of that identity – something Lithuanians forced to emigrate or deported took with them.
“Kanklės is something deeply important – something that helps you maintain a connection with your homeland. It helped people endure hardship and challenges, and not lose hope that they would return,” says Jarockienė.
The Council for the Protection of Ethnic Culture has designated this year as the Year of Kanklės, marking the anniversary of the Skriaudžiai ensemble and celebrating the revival and renewed sound of the kanklės tradition.
“Across Lithuania, a wide range of wonderful events are taking place. It is great to see Šalčininkai also recognising this important occasion. There are concerts, camps, and more. I think Lithuania will resonate particularly strongly this year,” Vyčinienė adds.
The exhibition will run until the end of April.
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