Urasiiliin

Urasiiliin is a traditional Finnish folk instrument that belongs to the family of bowed string instruments. Its name derives from the Finnish words *ura* (meaning "groove" or "furrow") and *siili* ("hedgehog"), referencing its distinctive shape and construction. The urasiiliin is often described as a precursor to the modern violin, though it differs significantly in design and playing technique.

The instrument typically features a small, rounded body with a single curved neck and a fingerboard, resembling a miniature fiddle. It is usually made from wood, with a soundboard often crafted from spruce and a back from pine or birch. The urasiiliin is played with a bow, similar to a violin, but its smaller size and unique tuning make it produce a softer, more nasal tone. Historically, it was used in rural Finland, particularly in the regions of Karelia and Savonia, where it accompanied folk songs and dances.

Unlike the violin, the urasiiliin is often tuned to a lower pitch, sometimes in a drone-like manner, which contributes to its characteristic sound. It was traditionally played in a seated position, with the instrument resting on the player’s lap or knee. The instrument’s construction and tuning varied by region, with some versions featuring only two or three strings, while others had four, similar to a violin.

Today, the urasiiliin is considered a rare and culturally significant instrument, often associated with the preservation of Finnish folk music. While it is no longer commonly used in everyday performances, efforts have been made to revive its use in traditional music circles. Musicians and historians continue to study and perform with the urasiiliin to maintain its legacy as an important part of Finnish musical heritage.