Kannel and Melodica by Eliska Svobodova

The kannel is Estonian version of an instrument known throughout the world as either zither or lap harp. But to refer to the Estonian origin it is recommended by the instrument masters to use the same name as in Estonian - kannel. It's history dates back over 2000 years. Kannel was formed in ancient times among Fenno-Baltic and Baltic tribes and was taken over by neighbouring Balto-Slavic tribes. Finns have kantele, Latvians - kokle, Lithuanians - kanklis, Slavs - gusli. The oldest string instrument in Estonia is a 6-7 string (earlier 5-string) kannel. My instrument has 6 strings - part of D major: d1 - e1 - f1 sharp - g1 - a1 - b1 Peculiar to the kannel is its long sound. One technique of playing is "picking" - allows a more melodic tune to be made. This technique is better for slower melodies. Another is "covered technique" - playing chords - one hand covers strings and other one plays chords - the range of the chords is limited in relation to number of strings. The kannel is a relatively soft instrument. It is far not so powerful as most of the classical instruments. http://www.kandlekoda.ee/history.htm

The melodica or wind piano can be described as a free reed system with a mouthpiece, air chamber, and keyboard. It produces sound only exhaling into not inhaling. When playing more than one note at a time the instrument can sound very reminiscent of an accordion. It is possible to play it both hands - like a piano. There is also possible to create glissando and tremolo. The sound can be quite loud (similar to accordeon). http://www.melodicas.com/Hammond44.htm The range of my instrument is: c - g3