INSTRUMENTS

Santte Salonen’s main instruments are saxophone and clarinet. He is particularly familiar with the different sounds and playing techniques of the soprano saxophone, combining the lessons he has received from both classical music and jazz music professionals. While studying folk music at the Sibelius Academy, he delved into the melodic stylistic features and phrasing of Nordic folk music by imitating traditional instruments.

Salonen plays the soprano saxophone with two very different mouthpiece-reed combinations, depending on the situation. While composing, Salonen also plays keyboard and string instruments.