Skogtakt
The Skogtakt, with its distinctive design and playing style, is a musical instrument that captures the essence of Ice of the Returned's deep connection to the frozen world outside and to magic.
Construction and Aesthetics
The Skogtakt boasts a rugged, metallic body that reflects a deliberate choice for acoustic excellence over ornamental polish. The surface of the metal is left intentionally rough, a characteristic that not only adds to the instrument’s unique visual appeal but also enhances its resonance, allowing for a deeper, more textured sound. This rough exterior is the result of a special forging process that imbues the metal with superior acoustic properties. Just a handful know how to do this, but there are few people coming to Ice of the Returned to learn how.
by Désirée Nordlund and ChatGPT
Strings and Neck
The Skogtakt is strung with eight strings, each chosen for its contribution to the instrument’s versatile sound palette. The three strings made from animal tendons produce warm, rich tones that contrast beautifully with the sharper, clearer notes of the five metal strings. These metal strings require magical treatment to achieve the right balance of flexibility and strength, a task performed by the skilled wizard living in Ice of the Returned. The instrument's neck is equipped with frets, allowing the musician to change the pitch of the notes by pressing the strings against it with their left hand, offering a wide range of musical expression. The neck is the only polished and smooth part of the instrument.Playing Technique
The Skogtakt is played with the musician seated, the instrument resting on their lap, and legs crossed. The right hand is used to pluck or strum the strings, eliciting melodies and harmonies from the blend of tendon and enchanted metal strings. The left hand manipulates the strings along the neck, altering pitches to create intricate musical passages. Unique to the Skogtakt is its dual function as a percussive instrument. Utilizing the metallic body, the musician taps rhythms with their right foot, adding a dynamic percussive layer to the melody. Sometimes the musician uses a toecap or heelcap in metal to enhance the drum sound. This aspect transforms the Skogtakt into a one-person ensemble, capable of producing a richly layered musical performance that combines melody, harmony, and rhythm. This playing style requires a harmonious coordination of both hands, and a foot, as well as a deep understanding of the instrument’s unique sound production mechanisms. Some less skilled musicians ignore the use of a foot.Cultural Significance
The Skogtakt, with its rough aesthetic, magical string treatment, and intricate playing method, is more than just a musical instrument; it is a reflection of the culture of Ice of the Returned, where music, magic, and craftsmanship intertwine. It embodies their appreciation for the beauty found in natural imperfection, the deep connection to the mystical, and the value of skilled artisanship. The instrument is popular and has spread over Hinvagh, but no one has managed to copy its construction, so the people of Ice of the Returned can sell their creation for a good price.
Item type
Musical Instrument
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