Sometimes living traditions become threatened with extinction. Jussi Huovinen is the last living custodian of the ancient rune-singing tradition of Karelia in Eastern Europe.
→ proceed to episode 6 The Tune
- More about rune songs, the Kalevala, and JRR Tolkien.
- Meet Jussi Huovinen.
- Learn about the kantele instrument.
- Karelia, Jussi's home.
- Song: Rune song
(video, and an explanation by Jussi). - Study guide for Singing Legends.
The story of Jussi Huovinen — the last remaining individual with a significant first-hand knowledge of the musical traditions of his culture — illustrates a pattern of decline, collection, preservation, and revival which is being played out in many world music traditions.
