The kantele is a traditional Finnish musical instrument that belongs to the family of string instruments known as zithers. Specifically, zithers are characterized by a resonating body and a variable number of strings. They can be plucked, strummed, struck, or bowed.
Featuring a triangular-shaped soundbox with strings running across its top, the kantele offers a unique design. The number of strings on a kantele can vary, ranging from as few as five to as many as 39. Typically made of steel or nylon, these strings can be plucked or strummed to produce captivating sounds. The kantele is usually tuned to a diatonic scale, although alternative tunings are also possible.
Delving deeper into its cultural significance, the kantele occupies a special place in Finnish culture and music. Beyond being a musical instrument, it is intertwined with Finnish folklore and holds the status of a symbol of national identity. In fact, the Kalevala, the national epic of Finland, features the demigod Väinämöinen who plays the kantele.
For centuries, the kantele has accompanied traditional Finnish songs and dances, and it continues to grace contemporary Finnish music, featured in both solo performances and ensemble settings. In addition to its use in traditional folk music, the kantele also appears in world fusion, western classical, ambient, experimental and pop music. Furthermore, electric kanteles are also used by Finnish musicians.
Beyond its historical and cultural roles, the kantele stands out for its accessibility. Thanks to its simple design and intuitive playing technique, it is considered a relatively easy instrument for beginners to learn. Many individuals find joy in playing the kantele, drawn to its enchanting sound. Fortunately, resources such as teachers and online tutorials are readily available, facilitating the learning journey for those eager to explore the world of the kantele.
Notable musicians who play the kantele include Anna-Karin Korhonen; Arja Kastinen; Eija Kankaanranta; Eva Alkula; Hannu Saha; Hanna Ryynänen; Ida Elina; Jutta Rahmel; Juulia Pölönen; Kardemimmit (the group); Maija Kauhanen; Maija Pokela; Marjo Smolander; Minna Raskinen; Pauliina Syrjälä; Sanni Virta; Sarah Palu; Senni Eskelinen; Sinikka Langeland (Norway); Timo Väänänen; Vilma Timonen; and Japanese musician Hiroko Ara.
Kantele Organizations
Kanteleliitto, Finnish Kantele Association. The organization has a kantele music competition.
Friends of Kantele and Kalevala (Kantele- och Kalevala Vänner)
Japan Kantele Society (Nihon Kantele tomo-no-kai)
Kantele books
Finnish Kantele Techniques, Exercises, Tunes, and Arrangements for Five and Ten-string Kanteles by Sarah Cummings, Apr 18, 2022.
Kantele (Suomalaisen Kirjallisuuden Seuran toimituksia) by Anneli Asplund
Retro Kantele Music Book by Laura Young. Feb 11, 2023.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.