Kaustinen programme highlights old folk instruments and multicultural Canada

New works commissioned for endangered instruments - Kaustinen programme highlights old folk instruments and multicultural Canada

The 37th International Kaustinen Folk Music Festival, running on July 10–18, focuses on old folk instruments and multicultural Canada. The programme fueled by some 3000 musicians spans from traditional folk music to newly arranged folk and world music.

The Finnish Composers' and Lyric Writers' Association has commissioned new works for old folk instruments from Matti Kontio, Ilona Korhonen and World Mänkeri Orchestra, to be premiered in the main theme concert on July 11. During the festival the old folk instruments are taken on stage on many occasions as well as displayed at the exhibition in the Kaustinen Folk Arts Centre.

Among the performers within the festival focus of multicultural Canada are Le Vent du Nord, Nukariik, Asani, Khac Chi and Celso Machado. The local voice, though, is as strong as ever: traditional Kaustinen groups, such as Tallari, Purppuripelimannit and Hääkuoro will be featured on a number of festival venues. Gjallarhorn from the Swedish-speaking Ostrobothnia will celebrate their 10th Anniversary in a jubilee concert.

Kaustinen Folk Music Festival is the biggest event of its kind in the Nordic countries, boasting more than 10.000 daily visitors.

Mika Kauhanen/Fimic
17 June, 2004