for Under the Northern Skies short film
Finnish kantele artist Ida Elina has been awarded Kantele of the Year 2025 for the short film Under the Northern Skies. The award was presented by the Kantele Association of Finland.
In its statement, the Association highlighted the film’s unique way of combining modern kantele music, cinematic storytelling and a sound world inspired by Kalevala’s runic tradition. In Under the Northern Skies, the kantele is not merely an accompanying instrument, but a central dramaturgical and symbolic force that connects Kalevala-inspired mythology with contemporary audiences. The recognition affirms the instrument’s strong and natural role not only on concert stages, but also as a narrative voice in film.
Under the Northern Skies is part of a larger Kalevala project that brings together music, film and live performance into a multidisciplinary artistic framework. Receiving the Kantele of the Year award offers strong encouragement as the project moves into its next phase, continuing to expand through new works, productions and international presentations.
