kantelepuhallin

The kantelepuhallin is a Finnish folk musical instrument. It is a unique combination of a kantele, a plucked string instrument, and a wind instrument, typically a flute or whistle. The kantelepuhallin is not a widely known instrument even within Finnish folk music circles, and its exact origins and historical prevalence are not extensively documented.

The construction of a kantelepuhallin can vary. Generally, it involves integrating a wind pipe or a set of pipes into the body of a small kantele. The player can then simultaneously pluck the kantele strings while blowing into the wind component. This allows for a richer, multi-layered sound, where melodic lines can be played on the strings while a sustained or complementary melody is produced by the wind instrument.

The kantelepuhallin is often associated with experimental or contemporary folk music that seeks to revive and innovate upon traditional Finnish instruments. It is a rare instrument, and examples are typically found in the collections of folk music enthusiasts or in specialized instrument workshops. Its sound is characterized by the delicate plucking of the kantele combined with the breathy or clear tones of the integrated wind instrument, creating a distinctive sonic texture. Due to its unusual nature, it is sometimes featured in niche musical performances or recordings.