About Kemenche or Lyra lessons
Kemenche or Lyra
Kemenche of Istanbul/ Classical Kemenche or Lyra is a traditional bowed string instrument based on the city of Istanbul. Before the 19th century it was mainly used by Greek society of the Ottoman Empire for popular and entertainment music.
Cultural Background
In the Ottoman music, until the 19th century, the Persian-derived word kemence, meaning "small bow" or "small bowed instrument," was used for the spike fiddle known today as rebab. Also called keman, the kemance was the only bowed instrument used in Turkish classical music until the late 18th century. The kemanche gave way first to the viola d'amore and later to the European violin. The classical kemenche first entered to the Ottoman music by having a place in the incesaz fasil ensemble, in the mid-19th century. Since then, it has been become the part of the Classical Ottoman\Turkish Art Music.
Cross over
Since the classical kemenche has a very uniqe and deep sound, it has became a popular instrument for cross-over projects after 1950's. After this period it has been used in difeerent kind of music genres, such as early Western, jazz, contemporary and world music.
Way of playing
The 3 strings of the Lyra or Kemenche are being played with the finger nails. The finger tips are placed between the strings. A wonderful and specific tone quality is the result! Subtle glissandi can be made. The tradditional bow is quite archaic, yet effective. Nowadays a violin bow, or even better a viola da gamba bow, are being used.
Structure
The classical kemence is 40-41 centimeters in length and 14-15 centimeters wide. All its strings are of gut; only the lower string is silver-wound. Today some musicians use synthetic racquet strings, aluminum-wound gut or artificial silk strings, or chrome-wound steel violin strings. The sound post, which transmits the strings' vibration to the back of the instrument, is fixed between the bridge and back of the instrument under the A string. A small hole, 3-4 mm in diameter, is drilled in the back of the instrument directly under the bridge.
Demonstration of the Classical Kemenche by Neva Ozgen:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XGevDvEDvk&t=292s
More information
Looking for a Kemenche teacher?
Congratulations! Contact the Kemenche teacher near you and book a trial lesson!
Kemenche Trial Lesson
The trial lesson is the perfect opportunity to discuss lesson frequency, location, your favorite music styles, or other styles you'd like to explore, and to get to know your future Kemenche teacher. Book your first lesson package and receive a free trial lesson. (Regular price €25.00)
Why music lessons?
Music improves your mood, makes you happy, gets you moving, and gives you positive energy! Making music is one of the most motivating and healthy activities in life!
Turkish Kemenche
We focus on the Turkish Kemenche - Lyra repertoire. Constructive feedback, personalised exercises, tips, and inspiration from a dedicated, professional Kemenche teacher are the best choice!
Lesson Packages
Lesson times, payment for lessons, and location are agreed upon individually between you and your kemenche teacher.
Lesson Locations
Kemenche lessons take place at the teacher's home, studio, or your home.
Online Kemenche Lessons
If you would like to take online lessons, you can contact the kemenche teacher of your choice directly to discuss the options.
Music Theory Lessons
Would you like to learn more about the background of music? Learn more about harmony, tonalities, and musical structures? Find your kemenche teacher and discover the benefits of knowledge of makam theory.