Traditional Finnish Folk Music to Relax and Unwind To
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Traditional Finnish Folk Music is the perfect way to relax and unwind. It is soothing and calming, and has a wide variety of sounds and instruments to enjoy.
Introduction to Finnish Folk Music
Finnish folk music has a long tradition of being performed both in private and public settings. In the past, folk music was an important part of community life, helping to bring people together for celebrations and (on occasion) providing a form of entertainment.
Today, Finnish folk music still plays an important role in the lives of many people. It is often performed at weddings and other special occasions, and is also a popular choice for background music in restaurants and bars. Finnish folk music is typically very relaxed and mellow, making it the perfect choice for unwinding after a long day.
If you’re looking for some traditional Finnish folk music to relax and unwind to, here are a few of our favorites:
Characteristics of Finnish Folk Music
Traditional Finnish folk music consists primarily of singing in Finnish. However, there are also many instrumental pieces, particularly involving the zither-like kantele, as well as other traditional instruments such as the fiddle, harmonium and concertina. Finnish folk music has undergone a continuous process of change, but has remained relatively unaffected by outside influences.
Melodic
Finnish folk music has a very distinctive melodic style. The melodies are often quite simple and repetitive, and they use a lot of pentatonic scales. This gives Finnish folk music a very ‘folky’ sound that is often described as being very ‘earthy’ or ‘ organic’.
The melodies are often supported by simple chord progressions, and the overall feel of the music is usually quite relaxed and easy-going. This makes Finnish folk music ideal for unwinding and relaxing to. It is often said that listening to Finnish folk music is like taking a step back in time, as it has a very traditional and rustic feel.
Rhythmic
Finnish folk music has a strong rhythmic element, thanks in part to the influence of the interacting meters of Finnish speech. This is evident in the music itself, which often uses several different meters simultaneously. In addition, Finnish folk music often features ostinato patterns (repeating melodic or rhythmic motifs), which can create a mesmerizing effect.
Timbral
The tone quality or timbre of Finnish folk music is typically clean and clear due to the use of only a few instruments (usually 10 or fewer). The melodies are often pentatonic, meaning they use five notes within one octave. This gives Finnish folk music its distinctive sound. The tempo is usually fast, and the music is meant to be danced to.
Traditional Instruments Used in Finnish Folk Music
Traditional Finnish Folk Music often uses the same instruments you would find in a typical orchestra. The kantele, fiddle, nyckelharpa, and accordion are all popular instruments used in Finnish Folk Music.
Kantele
The kantele is a Finnish string instrument with a long tradition. It is related to the Russian balalaika and the Estonian kannel, and is played in a similar fashion. The kantele has a rectangular soundboard with metal strings, and is held in the lap or on a table. It is plucked or strummed with the fingers, and can be used to play a variety of folk music styles.
The kantele has a strong association with Finnish folklore, and is often used in traditional songs and dances. It is also popular in modern Finnish music, and has been used by a number of popular artists such as Jari Sillanpää, Vesa-Matti Loiri, and Arja Saijonmaa.
Jouhikko
The jouhikko is a traditional Finnish folk instrument that is similar to a violin or cello. It is played with a bow, and has a warm, resonant sound that is perfect for relaxing and unwinding. The jouhikko is often used in Finnish folk music, and has a wide range of musical styles.
Torvi
The torvi is a three-stringed Finnish folk instrument. It is also known as a jouhikko, which means bowing instrument. The torvi is believed to have originated in the Päijänne Tavastia region of Finland. It is often used in Finnish folk music and is considered one of the national instruments of Finland.
Notable Finnish Folk Music Artists
Finland has a long and beautiful history with folk music. For centuries, Finnish folk music was used as a way to relax and unwind after a long day of work. The music was often passed down from generation to generation, and the songs were often about nature, love, and loss. Today, there are many notable Finnish folk music artists who continue to create beautiful music.
Maria Kalaniemi
Maria Kalaniemi is a world-renowned Finnish accordionist who has won numerous international competitions and is considered one of the best traditional folk musicians of her generation. Her playing style is highly unique, incorporating elements of jazz and classical music into her traditional folk repertoire. Kalaniemi has released several solo albums and has toured extensively throughout Europe and North America.
Arto Järvelä
Arto Järvelä is a Finnish fiddler who has toured and recorded with several different bands, most notably Niekku, a group he co-founded in 1984. He has also released several solo albums and written music for film and television. Järvelä’s music is based in the Finnish tradition of humppa, a dance music similar to polka, but with a faster tempo. He often incorporates elements of rock and jazz into his playing, giving his music a unique sound.
Pekka Kuusisto
Pekka Kuusisto is a Finnish violinist, conductor and composer who is particularly known for championing contemporary music. He has released several solo albums and works regularly with ensembles such as the Avanti Chamber Orchestra, Nordic Symphony Orchestra and Tapiola Sinfonietta. His music has been described as “full of invention, rhythmically vital and arrestingly beautiful” by The Strad magazine.
Where to Find Finnish Folk Music
Finnish folk music can be the perfect way to relax and unwind after a long day. The music is often slow and calming, with a focus on nature and the environment. You can find Finnish folk music online, on streaming services, or on CDs.
Online
You can find Finnish folk music online through a variety of streaming services, such as Spotify and Apple Music. There are also a number of Finnish broadcasters that offer folk music programs, such as Yle Radio Suomi and Radio Helsinki. You can also find many Finnish folk music CDs on Amazon.
Record Stores
When it comes to finding Finnish folk music, record stores are a great place to start. Many stores specialize in world music, and you’re likely to find a good selection of Finnish music in these shops. If you don’t have any luck at the record store, you can always try searching online. There are many websites that specialize in world music, and you should be able to find a good selection of Finnish folk music on these sites.
In addition to record stores and online retailers, you can also find Finnish folk music at many Finnish embassies and consulates. Many of these institutions have libraries of Finnish music, and they may be able to help you find what you’re looking for. You can also try contacting the Finnish embassy or consulate directly; they may be able to point you in the right direction.
Finnish Festivals
Finnish festivals are the perfect place to find traditional Finnish folk music. There are many different types of festivals, from small, intimate gatherings to large-scale events that attract people from all over the world.
The Kaustinen Folk Music Festival is one of the most well-known festivals in Finland. It takes place every year in July, and features a wide variety of folk music from all over Finland.
Another great option for finding Finnish folk music is the Laulupidu, or “Song Festival”. This event takes place every five years, and features a mass choir of over 24,000 people singing traditional Finnish folk songs.
If you’re looking for a more intimate setting, there are also many smaller festivals held throughout Finland throughout the year. These festivals usually feature a single type of music, such as kantele music or accordion music.
No matter what type of festival you’re looking for, you’re sure to find traditional Finnish folk music that will relax and unwind you.
