Founded in 1977, this kantele association brings together musicians, instrument builders, composers, researchers and kantele enthusiasts. It promotes kantele culture across musical genres in Finland and abroad, and acts as an information provider and expert in the field. Its work follows the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage programme. It organises the International Kantele Competition, the annual Kantele Day on 16 September, kantele camps and tuition events, and awards the Kantele of the Year recognition and the Kultakantele award.
Newcomers are helped to obtain an instrument and find a teacher, and general information about learning the kantele is available. The association lends rental instruments and keeps a directory of music institutes that teach the kantele.
Do you play the kantele or have you taken part in the association's events? Share your experience in the comments.
