Wilho Saari is a kantele player in the tradition of his Finnish ancestors. He comes from a long line of players that can be traced back many generations, and has chosen to carry on this important Finnish musical tradition. Saari has a wide knowledge of the history of the kantele, as well as a sincere commitment to many other aspects of Finnish folklore. The kantele is a wooden stringed instrument usually played on the lap or on a table. It generally has from 15 to 40 metal strings and produces a harp- or bell-like sound. Saari is strongly devoted to perpetuating the tradition of the kantele and he spends hours every day practicing traditional Finnish songs and creating new tunes. Wilho participates in many folk festivals around the country where he conducts workshops on kantele playing. He has performed at community events and has produced a number of recordings of kantele songs, traditional and otherwise.
The Kantele has such a resonance to it - its sound is very distinct, and lovely to listen to, even to the ears of this slightly envious Swede! ;) Beautifully played!!!! I hope to hear more from Hr. Saari....
gemcuttr51 2 years ago