4. Where can I get a kantele?
Make sure to get a kantele with a total length of about 70 to 75 cm (28 to 30"). The shorter ones (about 50 cm resp. 20") are often made to be played in G major. That's also fine if you use this course just for yourself. You only have to be aware that all notes and chords are four steps higher on a Gkantele than on a D-kantele. If you work through this course with others, I recommend that all of you use a kantele in D-tuning, as this book refers to the longer D-major models. If you live in Finland it should be no problem to get hold of a kantele. Several makers produce wellmade kanteles in series and ship to most locations in the world. Depending on how much you want to spend, you can look for instruments made by Koistinen, Lovikka or Melodia Soitin. But you can also find websites of other makers who run small businesses in Finland and other countries.
If you have wood-working skills, you could even build your own kantele! Here are some photos of a 10-string kantele I built in April 2014:
5. What else do I need to get started?
For a kantele with metal 'zither' pins, you also need a tuning wrench (usually provided with new instruments). They come in T- or L-shape and you can also use a fitting clock key.
I'd also recommend a chromatic electronic clip tuner. They are not too expensive – you can get one for less than 10 Euros. Make sure that you get a chromatic tuner – there are tuners that are specially made for ukuleles, guitars etc. If you have a tuner with different modes, make sure that you choose the "chromatic" mode.
A strap is very useful as it helps to keep the instrument in place while you play it. You can even play your kantele when standing!
Last not least, it is a good idea to store your instrument in a case or gig bag.