Blessley Instruments’ Finnish Kanteles!
First described in the Kalevala epic, the kantele is the Finnish national instrument, and has been played for centuries. It is a terrific instrument for a beginning musician, and is easy to learn to play, as the tradition is improvisation!
Basic playing instructions, a tuning key and a small tune book are included with each instrument. Online lessons (Zoom) are available with Valerie. Sharping levers can be added for an extra fee. Talk to Dr. Blessley about your sharping lever options. (360-910-1112)
We recommend Coon Hollow Canvas for kantele cases. www.coonhollowcanvas.com
Blessley Instruments is happy to offer five different models:
The 5 string, the 10 string, the 11 string, the 11+4 (with a bass chord), and the Virsikantele (hymn kantele).
Kanteles can be made from the following woods: Alder, Maple, Cherry, and Black Walnut.
The original 10 string Kantele in Alder Price as of July 2026: $500.00
Cases not included. We recommend Coon Hollow Canvas in Montana. www.coonhollowcanvas.com
The original 11 & 4 and the 10 string – note – both models will now have the curved ponsi and the shape of the 11 string Kantele pictured above.
Price as of July 2026: 11+4 kantele $1000.00, 10 string kantele $500.00. Cases not included.
We recommend Coon Hollow Canvas in Montana. www.coonhollowcanvas.com
The Virsikantele in Alder with a horse hair bow. Price as of July 2026: $1200.00
Cases not included. We recommend Coon Hollow Canvas in Montana. www.coonhollowcanvas.com
Valerie and Mark Blessley – with (3) 5 string kanteles, Cherry, Walnut and Alder – all with a sharping level on the F string
In the “Tori”, at the Naselle Finnish-American Folk Festival. Nordic Inspired pottery by SAVI Clayworks, Valerie’s clay studio.