Aikaanlain

Aikaanlain is a type of Finnish folk music that emerged in the 18th century. The term aikaa is Finnish and means 'time', referring to the storylines and historical contexts found in these songs. This type of music is characterized by its use of spoken word, often in a storytelling format, accompanied by a melody.

The lyrics of an aikaanlain song usually tell a historical story or legend, often dealing with mythological events or significant events in Finnish history. They were typically performed in general gatherings, such as communal feasts or festivals. The vocalist would use the spoken word to relate the story, accompanied by a kantele, a traditional Finnish string instrument.

The kantele played a crucial role in the aikaanlain tradition. The instrument helped to set the pace for the story, with different melodies used to denote different aspects of the narrative. The kantele's functions ranged from background music to emphasizing key points in the story. The use of the kantele in these performances was integral to the transmission of historical information through this genre of folk music.

The aikaanlain tradition is an important part of Finnish cultural heritage, offering a unique insight into the country's past. Though it has largely been overshadowed by other Finnish folk traditions like the more well-known Kalevala poetry, it retains significant historical importance. Scholars regard the aikaanlain music for its wealth of historical and mythological knowledge, allowing contemporary society to draw upon such resource.