Folk Music Training Program

The Ala-Könni Institute (AKO) Experience

This one school year long training program is run in the town of Kaustinen in an inspiring musical enviroment. Studies are practically-oriented, which in other words means: making music! Days are full of playing, singing, dancing, improvising, simply – full of doing. The studies include a number of public performances, thus you will get lots of gig experience. AKO has excellent learning facilities at Kaustinen Folk Arts Center. Your teachers are solid professionals, among them musicians from the Tallari Ensemble.

What does the program consist of?

General Studies Instrument Construction, Studio Techniques, Creative Expression, Knowledge of Working Life, Performance Training

Practical Subjects Main Instrument, Ensemble Performance, Folk Song, Folk Dance, Improvisation

Educational Subjects History of Music, Modern Folk Music, World’s Music Cultures

Theoretical Studies Folk Music Theory, Composition and Arrangement, Notation

Practical Assignments Field Work, Project

Study time

The school year lasts from the end of August till the beginning of May (35 weeks of study), equalling 40 credits. It is also possible to study one semester only or participate in a two-year program. The studies began 29.8.2011.

Please find Application Form here.

For whom?

The studies are meant for everybody interested in folk music independent of age and background. The most important criteria are enthusiasm and a burning desire to do. A wish to pull oneself away from the rat-race of working life for some time is an excellent motive for applying to AKO. The training program also serves as a stepping stone to further studies in the field or functional complementary training for professionals of music.

Study fee

Approximately 95 € per week. Inexpensive and homely accommodation also available.