The Beauty of Finnish Folk Music

Finnish folk music is some of the most beautiful and haunting in the world. Experience the beauty of Finnish folk music for yourself with this collection of videos and articles.

The Origins of Finnish Folk Music

The origins of Finnish folk music can be traced back to the medieval period. At that time, the country was divided into two distinct regions: the East and the West. The East was inhabited by the Finnish people, who were known for their love of music and dance. The West was inhabited by the Swedish people, who were known for their love of singing. As a result, the folk music of Finland is a blend of these two traditions.

One of the most important aspects of Finnish folk music is its use of the kantele, a stringed instrument that is similar to a zither. The kantele is believed to have originated in the East, and it has been an important part of Finnish folk music for centuries. Kantele players use a variety of techniques to produce their unique sound, and they often accompany their playing with singing or chanting.

Another important aspect of Finnish folk music is its use of harmonies. This is due in part to the fact that early Finnish folk songs were written in a major key, which made them more compatible with Swedish songs written in a minor key. As a result, Finnish folk music often features two or more voices singing in harmony with each other.

Finally, Finnish folk music often features elements of nature, such as birdsong or the sound of running water. This is likely due to the fact that Finland is such a beautiful country, with forests, lakes, and mountains providing endless inspiration for musicians.

The Instruments of Finnish Folk Music

Finnish folk music is surprisingly diverse, with a wide variety of instruments used to create its unique sound. The most common instrument is the kantele, a type of plucked string instrument with a long history in Finland. Other popular instruments include the jouhikko, a bowed string instrument; the nyckelharpa, a Swedish-origin keyed fiddle; and the torvi, a Finnish horn.

The Characteristics of Finnish Folk Music

Finnish folk music has a very distinctive sound that is quite different from the music of other European countries. The music is characterized by its use of the kantele, a type of plucked string instrument, as well as other traditional instruments such as the jouhikko (a type of bowing instrument) and the mandolin. Finnish folk music also often features vocal harmonies, which are said to be some of the most beautiful in all of Europe.

The Influence of Finnish Folk Music

Finnish folk music has had a significant influence on the development of Finnish classical and popular music. Many Finnish composers, such as Jean Sibelius, were inspired by folk music, and folk melodies can be found in many of their works. Finnish folk music has also been an important influence on other genres, such as rock and jazz. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in traditional Finnish folk music, and several groups have formed to play and perform it.