Nyckelharpa

The nyckelharpa (or key-fiddle) is another bowed instrument stemming from Sweden.  It developed from the lesser known Moraharpa into a popular folk instrument. With origins in the 15th century, the instrument as it is now, become popular in the 19th century. 

It has a distinctly Medieval sound, with 3 resonating strings for each of the melodic strings. The keys are attached to tangents which, when depressed, shorten the string thus chaning the pitch. 

Like a modernday violin, it is hard to play, but a joy to listen to!