The ensemble was formed in October 2019. A boundless desire to play the kanklės, sing, promote the Lithuanian national instrument, and share the heritage of the Anykščiai region brought together 15 enthusiastic music lovers from various professions.
The repertoire of “Laumakė” includes instrumental pieces and folk songs, performed on 10-string kanklės (with accompaniment), which were handcrafted for the ensemble by master craftsman Egidijus Virbašius.
Since their first performance on December 22, 2019, they have held about 20 concerts annually. Among Laumakė’s achievements are participation in the Lithuanian Song Festival “Kad giria žaliuotų” in the Kanklės Concert “Skambėkite kanklės”, the Song Festival Tour across Lithuania, the 9th International Folk Contest-Festival “Saulės žiedas”, the 37th International Folklore Festival “Atataria lamzdžiai”, the International Kanklės Music Festival “Kanklės mano rankose”, the Eastern Aukštaitija Folk Music and National Dance Festival “Aukštaitijos vainikas”, the National Instrument Ensembles and Orchestras Festival “Trimitatis”, the 12th Lithuanian Kanklės Camp “Skambantys kankleliai”, the Eastern Lithuania Folklore Festival “Suprašė žvirblelis”, as well as participation in the joint project “Baltas paukštis” during the final concert of the “Purpurinis vakaras” cultural festival, and many other performances.
In 2023, the ensemble successfully carried out the project “Kliudžiau kankles”, which will continue every two years and is planned to expand into an international event in the future.
In 2024, the Traditional Kanklės Ensemble “Laumakė” of Anykščiai Culture Centre and its leader Asta Motuzienė were recognized as the Best Folk Music Ensemble and Director, receiving the “Aukso Paukštė” award. This honor acknowledges their creativity, professionalism, and sincere work in preserving traditional Lithuanian music. The award is established by the Lithuanian National Culture Centre.
Artistic director: Asta Motuzienė
