Blessley Instruments Kanteles

Blessley Instruments is pleased to announce the addition of Finnish Kanteles to our instrument line.

First described in the Kalevala epic, the kantele is the Finnish national instrument, and has been played for centuries. They are surprisingly easy for a novice musician or player.

Blessley Instruments is happy to offer four different models:

The 5-string, The 10 string, The 11+4 (with a bass chord), and The Virsikantele (hymn kantele).

All kanteles (except the Virsikantele) are tuned to the traditional key of D major.

The Virsikantele , tuned in C major, is chromatic, has one gut string, and is played with a horsehair bow. There are 21 notes, beginning at G below Middle C.

The 5-String, The 10 String and The 11+4 models are fitted with "guitar strap" buttons, a nylon web strap, and one row of harmonics (flageolet) is marked. A second row of harmonics marks can be ordered. A soft, envelope-style case is standard, and a deluxe, thicker case with foam protection, shoulder strap and cordura-type fabric is available by special order. Plan on 2-4 weeks for delivery of deluxe cases.

R. W. Ekman, Kreeta Haapasalo soittaa kannelta, 1868.