The Nyckelharpa collection
This collection brings together three distinct nyckelharpas, each with its own character and range.
-
Cello Nyckelharpa: deep and powerful, it provides the foundation with rich low tones.
-
Tenor Nyckelharpa: warm and versatile, it bridges depth and brightness with balance.
-
Alto Nyckelharpa: clear and agile, it shines in the higher register with expressive clarity.
Together, they form a complete family of instruments — offering a full spectrum of sound for both ensemble and solo performance.
New Horizon in the Art of Rarity
Jean-Jacques Mantello approaches the nyckelharpa as both luthier and artist, creating instruments of exceptional beauty and depth. Every piece is a singular work, crafted for those who seek not only musical excellence, but the rarest expressions of the luthier’s art.
Bridge & Tailpiece
Our delicately carved bridge is so positioned as to transmit the string vibrations perfectly into the resonating body, giving the instrument its warm, rich tone.
Our tailpieces are made from dense woods such as ebony and maple. While holding the string tension, they add an elegant visual balance to the instrument.
Together, bridge and tailpiece are essential components that shape the alto nyckelharpa's voice and character.
The keybox
The keybox contains rows of wooden keys that are meticulously aligned and weighed for an unparalleled smooth, responsive feel.
Each key is carefully aligned and weighted for a smooth, responsive feel.
The layout allows for chromatic playing over several octaves, giving the instrument its distinctive voice.
Headstock & Tuners
At the top of the nyckelharpa, the headstock holds 16 precise metal tuning machines.
The 4 upper tuners control the melodic strings—the ones played with the bow.
Below them, 12 smaller tuners adjust the sympathetic strings, which resonate beneath the melody and enrich the instrument's tone with shimmering overtones.
This setup allows for easy and accurate tuning, while the metal hardware adds both reliability and a touch of modern craftsmanship to this traditional instrument.
