In the 51st of a series of articles, David Bird discusses the work of Redbridge Music Society and introduces Emilija Karaliute, who will be performing in Wanstead this month
Two main aims of Redbridge Music Society are to promote the work of younger musicians and to bring a range of musical styles and genres to the people of Redbridge via high-quality live recitals. Both aims will be evidenced this month at Wanstead Library when Lithuanian musician Emilija Karaliute will perform on the ‘kanklės’ (a zither-like instrument), playing a diverse range of music, including traditional Lithuanian folk music and works by composers such as Saint-Saens, Mendelssohn and the Belgian harpist/composer Alphonse Hasselmans.
The kanklės – the national instrument of Lithuania – is a string instrument belonging to the zither family where the strings are parallel to the soundboard (not perpendicular to the soundboard as with the harp) and do not extend beyond it (as with the guitar). It is usually rested on the player’s lap and is played by either plucking the strings with the fingers or with a bone or quill plectrum. It is an ancient instrument most probably dating back to the 15th century and is used in folk music, rituals, celebrations and, at one time, even warfare. It is related to the Latvian ‘kokle’, the Finish ‘kantele’ and the Russian ‘gusli’.
Emilija is a professional classical and folk musician who began studying the kanklės in Lithuania at an early age, developing a deep connection to the instrument and its cultural roots. She has been playing the kanklės for 16 years and has twice been awarded the title of the National Laureate of Lithuania.
The kanklės still remains relatively unknown to many and Emilija is passionate about popularising and showcasing the instrument, sharing it with new audiences and, at the same time, promoting the diversity of Lithuanian culture. She came to the UK in 2018 to fulfil this mission, and since completing her degree in London with first-class honours has now become a regular performer in the UK and Europe, with recent solo recitals in Paris and Berlin.
Emilija is well known for her ability to enthuse audiences with her commentaries about the nature, history and culture of the kanklės and for her prowess in skilfully integrating the instrument into diverse genres, including classical, contemporary and folk music.
Please come along to this recital; it will provide a unique opportunity to see and hear an unusual, fascinating and beautiful-sounding instrument being demonstrated and played.
The recital will take place at Wanstead Library on 17 February from 8pm (tickets on the door: £12; members: £9). Call 07380 606 767. Redbridge Music Society is affiliated to Making Music.
