kanteles

The kantele is a plucked string instrument native to Finland and is considered the national instrument of the country. It belongs to the zither family and typically features a trapezoidal soundbox made of wood. The number of strings on a kantele can vary significantly, ranging from as few as five strings on older, smaller instruments to as many as 36 or more on modern concert kanteles. Historically, the kantele was often made from a single piece of wood, with the strings strung directly over the hollowed-out body.

The sound of the kantele is often described as clear and resonant. Its playing technique involves plucking the strings with the fingers, and in many traditional styles, the player uses a technique of strumming some strings while picking others to create a melodic and harmonic accompaniment. The kantele has a rich history in Finnish folklore and music, often associated with epic poems and ancient legends. It was historically played by wandering musicians and is still an important part of Finnish folk music today, with its presence extending into classical and contemporary music as well. The instrument has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent decades, with many musicians and enthusiasts embracing its unique sound and cultural significance.