Värttinä

Värttinä is a Finnish folk music group. Founded in 1983 in the village of Rääkkylä, North Karelia, Finland, Värttinä is known for its energetic and innovative performances of Karelian-rooted folk songs. Their music features predominantly female vocals, often performed in a polyphonic style that is characteristic of Karelian traditions. These vocals are typically accompanied by acoustic instruments, including kantele, jouhikko (bowed lyre), various wind instruments, and percussion.

Värttinä’s early albums drew heavily on traditional Karelian runosongs and laments. Over time, their sound has evolved to incorporate more contemporary elements and influences from other musical genres, while still maintaining a strong connection to their Karelian roots. They have toured extensively internationally and have released numerous albums, gaining a significant following both in Finland and abroad.

Key characteristics of Värttinä’s music include:

• Polyphonic Vocals: Their signature vocal style, often featuring multiple female singers performing complex harmonies.
• Karelian Influence: A deep connection to the traditional music and folklore of Karelia, a region historically divided between Finland and Russia.
• Acoustic Instrumentation: A reliance on acoustic instruments to create their distinctive sound.
• Evolutionary Sound: A willingness to experiment and incorporate new elements into their music, while staying true to their roots.

Värttinä’s work has been influential in popularizing Finnish and Karelian folk music on a global scale. They have also been involved in various collaborative projects with artists from other genres. Their contribution to the preservation and revitalization of Karelian musical traditions has been widely recognized.