Armas Launis

Armas Launis (1884–1959) was a versatile Finnish composer, ethnomusicologist, professor, writer, and journalist. Born in Hämeenlinna, he dedicated his career to music composition and folklore research, particularly focusing on opera and folk melody collection. His notable works include the opera *Kullervo*, inspired by the Kalevala, and orchestral pieces like *Lapu* and *Tunturisävelmia*. As an ethnomusicologist, Launis conducted extensive fieldwork, especially in Lapland between 1904 and 1905, documenting joik melodies and their cultural contexts. His efforts significantly contributed to the preservation of traditional music.

Launis served as a professor at the Helsinki Conservatory from 1932 to 1959, advocating for folk music education and establishing regional conservatories across Finland. He authored several books detailing his research and travels, further enriching his legacy in Finnish cultural heritage. His work seamlessly bridged traditional and modern music, leaving a lasting impact on subsequent generations of composers and researchers alike.