Kusle
Mari plucked string instrument
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Kusle (Meadow Mari: кӱсле; Northwestern Mari: кӹсле, кӹслӓ) or karsh (Meadow and Northwestern Mari: кӓрш) is a Mari plucked string instrument (chordophone). It has 12-20 strings and is shaped like a semi-circle.[1] The instrument is played in the lap, with both hands, and was played on some occasions such as ritual sacrifices, and to accompany dancing.[2] Kusle is described as resembling the Russian gusli or the Finnish kantele.[3]
Other nameskarsh, kysle, kjusle and kiusle
Hornbostel–Sachs classification314.122-5
(Diatonic lute-type stringed instrument played using bare hands and fingers)
(Diatonic lute-type stringed instrument played using bare hands and fingers)
| String instrument | |
|---|---|
| Other names | karsh, kysle, kjusle and kiusle |
| Classification | Chordophone |
| Hornbostel–Sachs classification | 314.122-5 (Diatonic lute-type stringed instrument played using bare hands and fingers) |
| Related instruments | |
| Krez, gusli, kantele | |
Organologist Anthony Baines noted in 1969, regarding the medieval Russian gusli: "...and the instrument has latterly been revived, notably in the Mari province by the Volga".[4]
