How the jouhikko makes its sound
In the Hornbostel–Sachs system, which classifies instruments by how they produce sound, the jouhikko belongs to the lutes: strings run parallel to a soundboard and along a neck – the family of the guitar, violin, sitar and oud.
More broadly it is one of the chordophones (string instruments), where sound comes from vibrating strings, amplified by a resonating body.
Players shape its sound through technique and materials; the resonating body filters the raw vibration, boosting some harmonics and damping others.
From Wikipedia
The jouhikko is a traditional, two- or three-stringed bowed lyre, from Finland and Karelia. Its strings are traditionally of horsehair. The playing of this instrument died out in the early 20th century but has been revived and there are now a number of musicians playing it.
Other lutes
More instruments from Finland
Frequently asked questions
What does a jouhikko sound like?
As one of the lutes, its sound comes from the way strings run parallel to a soundboard and along a neck.
What type of instrument is the jouhikko?
It is classified as lutes (Hornbostel–Sachs 321.22).
Where does the jouhikko come from?
The jouhikko originates from Finland.
Sources & credits
- Wikidata Q1709776 – CC0
- Wikipedia: Jouhikko – CC BY-SA 4.0
- Image by Simon Chadwick – CC BY 3.0