Saksikasitteisilla

Saksikasitteisilla, or "saksika" (plural: saksikasitteiset), refers to a group of Finnish folk instruments characterized by their saw-like blades, which are plucked or strummed to produce sound. These instruments are part of traditional Finnish music and are often associated with rural and festive occasions.

The most well-known example of saksikasitteiset is the *säkkipilli*, a bagpipe-like instrument, though the term specifically refers to instruments with a saw-like blade. Another example is the *kantele*, a zither-like harp, though it does not strictly fit the definition due to its string arrangement. The true saksikasitteiset typically include instruments like the *säkkipilli* (though its sound is produced by reeds, not a blade) and the *säkkipellin* saw-like variants, as well as the *säkkipellin* cousin, the *säkkipellin* saw, which is less common.

The sound of saksikasitteiset instruments is often described as bright and piercing, with a distinctive, almost metallic quality due to the plucked or strummed blade. These instruments are often used in folk music ensembles, particularly in northern and eastern Finland, where they play a key role in traditional celebrations, such as weddings, harvest festivals, and other communal gatherings.

While saksikasitteiset instruments are not as widely used in modern Finnish music as they once were, they remain an important part of Finland’s cultural heritage. Some contemporary musicians and folk revival groups have sought to preserve and popularize these instruments, ensuring their continued presence in Finnish musical traditions. Their unique sound and historical significance make them a fascinating subject for both musicians and cultural historians.