STOBETES – STRING MUSIC – NATURAL YODELLING
If you think the mountain pastures are quiet and serene places at all times, you are wrong. From June to September the herdsmen come together to celebrate at so-called “Stobetes”. Everyone is in high spirits as they enjoy a great night of yodelling, Talerschwingen – the rolling of coins in a clay bowl – folk dances, string music and cowbell swinging.
Appenzell string music with hammered dulcimer, double bass, cello and two violins, recently quite often also with accordion, is renowned the globe. Possibly the most famous string music ensemble are the Alder family from Urnäsch. They have performed string music together since 1884 and today the different line-ups of the group include 3rd-, 4th- and 5th-generation members of the family.
Just as important as string music is yodelling. There are variations with or without lyrics. In addition to yodelling songs and the “Ratzeliedli” (mocking songs), many choirs specialise in natural yodelling, without lyrics. This is also known as Rugguusseli in Innerrhoden and Zäuerli in Ausserrhoden.
FACTS
| Dates | Appenzell music on request |
|---|---|
| Location | Towns and villages of the Appenzellerland |
