Preschool Children and the 5-String Kantele: An Exercise in Composition

The article discusses the 5-string kantele as an example of the Finnish national heritage and its use as a teaching device in kindergartens and music schools. The article focuses on creative orientation and improvisation of kantele playing in one day care center. A qualitative case study was made in which the teacher supported six children aged 5-6 to improvise and use their creativity to make music at a particular moment. The research problem was to discover which aspects of musical learning and improvisation can be seen when children compose a song or a melody with a 5-string kantele. The research method used was observation during composing and interviews after the group composing sessions. The process and performances were videotaped and analyzed. The results present the reactions of the children and their interests in music and abilities to concentrate on making their own music. The creative learning process showed children's motivation and ability to create their own lyrics and melodies. The 5-string kantele is suitable for early music education and early musical improvisation. Group composing increases social skills and children's creative musical orientation.