Sami Folk Music: A Traditional Sound of the North

Sami Folk Music has a long tradition in the Northern countries of Europe. The music is characterized by the use of the joik, a traditional form of singing.

Introduction to Sami Folk Music

Sami folk music is the traditional music of the Sami people, who inhabit the Arctic areas of Sápmi, which today encompasses parts of far northern Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the Kola Peninsula of Russia. The Sámi people traditionally make music for a variety of purposes, including entertainment, storytelling, ceremonies, and work. The music of the Sámi reflects their unique way of life and interpretation of their natural surroundings. The instruments used in Sami folk music include the jaw harp, fiddle (or viola), flute, and accordion.

The Sami people have a long history of oral tradition and storytelling. Music often played an important role in these stories, serving as a way to remember history and mythology. The vocal tradition was particularly important in transmitting these stories from one generation to the next. In recent years, the Sami people have begun to record and publish their traditional music. This has led to increased interest in and appreciation for Sami folk music both within Sápmi and around the world.

The Origins of Sami Folk Music

Sami folk music can be traced back thousands of years to the ancient people who first inhabited the Arctic region now known as northern Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Russia’s Kola Peninsula. The music was originally used for shamanistic rituals and ceremonies, but it eventually became an important part of the daily life of the Sami people.

The most distinctive feature of Sami folk music is its use of the joik, a type of vocal chant that is unique to the Sami people. Joiks can be about any subject, but they are often about specific people or animals. The sound of the joik is meant to imitate the sounds of nature, and it is this connection to the natural world that is one of the most important aspects of Sami culture.

Sami folk music was first recorded in the early 20th century by ethnographers and researchers who were interested in documenting the traditional cultures of northern Europe. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Sami music, and many modern musicians have been incorporating traditional elements into their work.

The Instruments of Sami Folk Music

The music of the Sami people is unique to the Arctic region, and is characterized by its use of the joik, a traditional form of singing. The instruments of Sami folk music are also unique to the Arctic region, and include the following:

-The fiddle (or “goavddis” in Sami): The fiddle is the most commonly used instrument in Sami folk music. It is typically played with a bow, and has two strings. The fiddle is used to accompany the joik.

-The flute (or “piipu” in Sami): The flute is another commonly used instrument in Sami folk music. It is made from reindeer horn, and has six holes which are covered with the fingers. The flute is used to accompany the joik.

-The drums (or “gievrie” in Sami): The drums are usually made from reindeer hide, and are played with two wooden sticks. The drums are used to keep time during the joik.

The Sounds of Sami Folk Music

The music of the Sami people is a unique and traditional sound that has been passed down through generations. The music is an important part of the Sami culture, and it is known for its beautiful melodies and emotive lyrics. The Sami people have their own musical instruments, which include the joik (a type of vocal music), the fadno (a flute), and the gukt (a percussion instrument). The music of the Sami people is typically performed at celebrations and festivals, and it is often used as a way to connect with nature and the spirit world.

The Sami Folk Music Tradition Today

The Sami Folk Music tradition is alive and well today. Thanks to the work of folk musicians, the ancient music of the Sami people is being revitalized and passed down to new generations.

Folk musicians are keeping the Sami musical traditions alive by performing at festivals, teaching workshops, and recording albums. They are also working to create new music that is inspired by the traditional sounds of the Sami people.

The Sami Folk Music tradition is an important part of the cultural heritage of the Sami people. It is a unique and beautiful musical tradition that deserves to be celebrated.