Janne Koskela

Timbre Tones

Luthier

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The warmer sound of timber

Janne is a luthier and microphone builder
He puts tradition at the service of modern players
His parents inspired him with their craftsmanship

The journey into music of Janne Koskela, founder of Timbre Tones, began when he was a teenager: his passion for acoustic steel string guitars, their sound and shape, took him to perform and play on several records. His curiosity got him into investigating how different guitars respond, being convinced that “each guitar has her own songs inside her, just waiting to be set free”. That is how he became a luthier, specialising in guitars. His research on sound led him to start crafting handmade studio condenser microphones, with real wood exteriors. These unique and customisable pieces, whose particular design and craftsmanship can be provided only by a luthier, are projected to deliver tones true and clear.

Interview

What is your educational background?
Lutherie is my second profession. I started it as a hobby, read up on the internet and at the city library, and taught myself to build acoustic guitars. The same happened with microphone building and electronics. Later I got an advanced degree at the Ikaalinen School of Crafts and Design.
How do you blend tradition and innovation?
The shapes of both my guitars and mics are strongly based on tradition. I choose the best materials and use traditional glues and finishes. Aesthetically, I use precious woods for my work. Usually it means the piece is not flashy, but of really high quality and extremely beautiful for the beholder.
Do you master any specific techniques?
There are always aspects I try to refine to make my guitars more playable and more comfortable for the modern player. I think this comes out in the sound. I work the wood with various hand tools: I’m proud to say my work is truly handcrafted.
What are your sources of inspiration?
For the manual side of my craft, both my parents have shown me the way: Mum knits, Dad has worked a lot with wood and metal. Aesthetic inspirations come from music itself, nature in Finland, the beauty of the materials I work with and the worldwide traditions of instrument making and woodcraft.

Janne Koskela is a rising star: he began his career in 2016