Magical sounds of the Kokle - Learn how to play it
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Are you curious about exploring local folk music and instruments all around the world? Then this workshop is for you! A local folk musician will introduce you to the kokle, a traditional Latvian string instrument. Latvians have a saying that the kokle is given to us by God, but the bagpipes - by the Devil. It will take only a few seconds to understand why we say that. We can assure you that the kokle has one of the purest, most magical, and calming sounds among all the instruments you have ever heard. You will have an opportunity to lure out some ancient melodies from the kokle by yourself.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
You will meet the musician at the entrance of the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum. In the beginning the folk musician will provide you with a short background of the kokle history and different types of the instrument. Then the magical sounds of the kokle will cast a spell on you while she plays a few songs. But later – it will be your turn to play! The folk musician will teach you the basics of the kokle and up to three simple, but beautiful Latvian folk songs. Do not worry, you do not need to have any previous experience in playing music, although the ability to read sheet notes would be useful (but is not required). After the kokle workshop you can explore the museum on your own, have a picnic next to the lake or simply enjoy the pine forest. The workshop takes place outdoors, please, dress according to the weather.
Options
Magical sounds of the Kokle - Learn how to play it
What‘s Included
The kokle playing instrument workshop in English
Entrance ticket for the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
What a Joy
carlc581,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Simply Unmissable. 5 Stars. The whole cast were properly invested in their performance, from beginning to end, and engaging the audience participation along the way.
Latvia's soul
Laura P,Aug 13, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a wonderful way to spend some time with traditional latvian sounds & to learn the basics of playing this ancient instrument, the kokle!
Highlight of my first trip to Latvia!
Fearless17045829571,Aug 9, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I loved this one-to-one lesson with Solveiga! She greeted me at the entrance and talked about the history of the museum while walking to a quite part of the museum. There she offered traditional Latvian herbal tea and dried cranberries. She discussed the history of the Kokle and played some pieces before it was my turn to try. She is a very good teacher (taking it from me I’m a music teacher myself) and was well prepared with differentiated pieces. After she gave me copies of the piece of music I learned which I look forward to arranging on my guitar when I get home. I recommend this to any musician visiting Latvia! Thank you Solveiga!
lovely day in the brīvdabas muzejs
Larry L,Jul 4, 2023
- Review from Viator
5.00Had a wonderful time learning folk songs I hadn't learned as a kid and remembering how to read sheet music. By the end it reality sounded like I knew what I was doing and the instructor was so good about the fact that I had injured my arm and only had one hand to play with.
My favorite experience on my trip
Larry L,Jun 23, 2023
- Review from Viator
5.00A wonderful experience. A small tour of the open air museum, herbal tea, a concert by the teacher with original songs and a lesson on the history of the instrument. Then the experience kicks into high gear with one on one instruction on the kokle, building from simple melodies, including chords and then layering in extra rhythms. I was provided seasonal songs celebrating the Janis summer solstice celebration. I was able to enjoy the lesson in full English with a very patient teacher.
Magical music workshop
VeronikaT64,Jul 20, 2022
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I highly recommend this experience if you are into music and learning. Kokle is a great instrument with a magical sound and Solveiga did a great job briefly explaining its history, types and interesting, easy to remember facts about kokle itself and wider Latvian culture. She was very friendly, easy to talk to and accommodated the experience for my level of music knowledge which was very much appreciated. Makes you want to play kokle more and check it out further. I must mention that the location is also stunning and well worth seeing after the workshop.
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