Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra has just taken possession of a specially commissioned Cimbalom instrument for future performances. Also known as the Hungarian dulcimer, it’s a notoriously difficult instrument to play.
Eric Renick and Jenő Lisztes at the Cimbalom Photo: supplied
The APO's principal percussionist Eric Renick is having one-on-one lessons on how to play it with world renown virtuoso Cimbalom player Jenő Lisztes. He's also playing in an upcoming concert at the Auckland town hall, showcasing the new instrument.
Both Eric and Jenő talk to Jesse Mulligan about the Cimbalom and the upcoming Tall Tales performance which will be broadcast live-to-air on RNZ Concert during Music Alive from 7.30 pm on Thursday night.
The Cimbalom is a box frame holding strings which are struck with a felt-tipped stick. It is related to the Hammered Dulcimer, which originated in Central and Eastern Europe.
You might have heard the Cimbalom featured in film scores including The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014), and accompanying Gollum in The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002).
