Spiveniskala

The spiveniskala is an Izbranan percussion instrument that is made of a mixture of differently carved stones of varying compositions fixed to a series of carved logs with rope, sap glue, and/or woden nails. Usually, a spiveniskala consists of six to ten different stones between 4-12 inches in length, with each made by its player to be unique. While the spiveniskala has a general sound that is associated with it, the exact notes and cadences are entirely unique to each instrument due to the hand-made and artisinal nature of its construction. Generally, spiveniskala are dominated by high pitched and ringing sounds with a few lower and vibrational sounds to balence them out.

Operation

The spiveniskala is played by hitting the rocks contained on the instrument to make diferent sounds in a rhythm. Spiveniskala players usually use either wooden or Izbranan Gift conjured sticks and hammers to play the instrument, each producing a generally different sound and ultimately being a choice of preference for the player. Generally, the instrument is oriented with the largest stones on the outside and getting progressively smaller and smaller as the middle of the instrument is approached, as players generally believe that the harder to hit stones belong on the outside where they are comparatively harder to reach. Generally, a low, baseline stone is played and left to ring while the player focuses their more advanced and complicated playing on the higher pitched stones, only playing the low stones to add harmonies and bassline to their music. Like Izbranan music as a whole, music played on the spiveniskala tends to be very fast paced and high pitched in its focus.
The spiveniskala is often played on its own, however it is also often played with other traditional Izbranan instruments to make a more complete rendition of Izbranan traditional songs. Unlike the role of percussion instruments in the music of other tribes, the spiveniskala and Izbranan percussion in general tends to have a more central role instead of a supplementary role in Izbranan music. It is not uncommon for multiple spiveniskala players to play together at Izbranan religious and cultural events, utilizing the differences between their instruments to play a more complete rhythmic profile. Due to the unstandardized nature of these differences, spiveniskala players will often practice for moons together before they believe they are ready for a full performance. Oftentimes, these groups of players will form their own bands and play together for years, if not the rest of their lives.

Players

While theoretically any Tiularan could learn to play the spiveniskala, due to the fact they are built with stones mostly found in the greystone deserts, it is traditionally an Izbranan instrument. Generally, the Izbranans who choose to learn the spiveniskala and love it will make it their primary hobby. While many Izbranans will learn how to play on a communal spiveniskala or one constructed by a friend or family member, a true player will often construct their own a few months into seriously learning the art. Spiveniskala players usually enjoy a lot of respect from the Izbranan community who sees such care and focus on personal growth as a good thing. The spiveniskala is the second most played instrument in Izbrana, although most spiveniskala players would describe themselves as novices or average players.

Cultural Relevance

The spiveniskala is a very ancient instrument and, as a result, many traditional Izbranan songs include parts that were made with the spiveniskala in mind. Many important Izbranan figures are described as spiveniskala players, especially among past chiefs and religious figures. The spiveniskala of Chief Heni of Izbra-Svetkamuk is preserved and often played in the central square of Svetkamuk on special occasions. Many Izbranan stories and carvings include mentions of spiveniskala and spiveniskala players, generally associated with symbolizing peace, personal growth, and self confidence. Spiveniskalas are often given to other tribes as a representative gift of the Izbranan people.

Item type

Musical Instrument