Traditionaalisissa

Traditionaalisissa is a style of traditional Western music from Finland, particularly associated with the region of Savo in eastern Finland. This genre of folk music is characterized by its use of stringed instruments, such as the one-stringed kielobass and the two-stringed viola, which are flat-topped and played with a bow.

The Traditionaalisista style emerged in the 19th century and is believed to have originated from the influence of Russian Orthodox Church music and the traditional music of the Sami people. The style emphasizes simplicity, folk melodies, and an emphasis on rhythm. Songs often feature storytelling, often focusing on themes of love, nature, or everyday life.

The distinct sonic characteristics of Traditionaalisista include the use of sub-fourth time signatures, characteristic ornaments such as tremolo and portamento, and a focus on sustained melodic motifs. The instrumentation is often augmented by field pipe, copper flute, and "cizia" - all wind instruments that have been crafted using local materials and specialty craftsmen.

The Traditionaalisista tradition has been studied and documented extensively by Finnish folk music researchers, and several notable artists like Eero Brühlmann have contributed to its preservation. However, unlike other forms of traditional Finnish folk music, Traditionaalisista has never achieved broad popularity and as such its repetoire and practices are for the most part known only to educated musicologists, Nordic folklore enthusiasts and the occasional indigenous music connoisseur.