When playing in the upper register, the aim is often to produce a clear, bright, and resonant sound. You can create a resonant sound without using much strength when

• the fingers arch heavily
• the points of touch between the very tips of the fingers and the strings are narrow 
• some of the weight of the hand is directed on these points of touch
• the points of touch are as close as possible to the midpoint of the string 

Finger movements should be quite narrow.

It is especially important to support the arms with the shoulder blade anchor if the piece has a long section that is played in the upper register. Leaning your body towards the instrument also helps to reduce strain in the arms and shoulders during the long upper register sections.

Example 1

The example illustrates playing in the upper register.

• Note the position of the fingers and that the fingertips make contact with the strings around the midpoint.
• On your own kantele, pluck an easy progression in the three-line octave.
• Experiment and observe:
  • What is the attack like around the midpoint of the string and at different distances from it?
  • How do the different finger positions affect the timbre?

Example 2: Markus Fagerudd: Lehdettömien puiden tanssi, bars 33-34

These figures can be plucked lightly.

• The lightly supported cupped hand and quite steeply – but still naturally – arched fingers contribute to the lightness.
• The sound is clear when the fingertips touch the strings near the midpoint.
• You can also play this progression using both hands.