| String instrument | |
|---|---|
| Other names | karsh, kysle, kjusle and kiusle |
| Classification | Chordophone |
| Hornbostel–Sachs classification | 314.122-5 (Diatoniclute-type stringed instrument played using bare hands and fingers) |
| Related instruments | |
| Krez,gusli,kantele | |
Kusle (Meadow Mari:кӱсле;Northwestern Mari:кӹсле, кӹслӓ) orkarsh (Meadow andNorthwestern Mari: кӓрш) is aMariplucked 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 Russiangusli or the Finnishkantele.[3]
OrganologistAnthony Baines noted in 1969, regarding the medieval Russiangusli: "...and the instrument has latterly been revived, notably in the Mari province by the Volga".[4]
