Jouhikko at the Finnish American Folk School
Written By:
Finlandia Foundation
Have you heard a jouhikko before? How would you describe its sound? For some, the sounds of this ancient instrument can be an acquired taste. For others, the droning sound of horsehair strings hooks them immediately.
The jouhikko is a Finnish bowed lyre traditionally strung with strings made from twisted horsehair. As a drone instrument, at least 2 strings are bowed simultaneously giving it a unique and compelling sound. Though less popular than its cousin the kantele, the jouhikko is still played by musicians in Finland where it shows up in traditional folk music as well as dark folk, electronica, ambient, metal, and trance music. Here in North America, it’s also enjoying a mini-resurgence at FFN’s Finnish American Folk School in Hancock where students have learned to build the instrument, make their own bows, and of course play.
Want to give it a try for yourself? Join us in Hancock for Juhannus this year and take a @finnishamericanfolkschool workshop June 19. Can’t make it to Michigan, but already have your own jouhikko? Reach out to us at www.FinnishAmericanFolkSchool.com and let us know if you’re interested in online classes.
