This presentation will give historical context on when and where Moomins were created. Biographical introduction of Tove Jansson will be provided by Helena Halmari. Other speakers include: Amberyl Malkovich and Sharon Franklin-Rahkonen.
This is the performance of “Urho & The Grasshoppers” by the kids for parents and guests.
ABOUT PRESENTER: Bill Väänänen is an award-winning music educator and composer who has taught and directed elementary-aged students for over 45 years. Originally from Oklahoma, “Mr. V.” was general music teacher at Wescott School in Northbrook, IL. for 37 years. He has written hundreds of songs and dozens of original theater works that have been performed across Chicago’s northern suburbs. Recipient of the Golden Apple Award, NEA-IEA Human Rights Award, National-Louis Distinguished Alumni Award for Social Justice, and Star of Teaching Award for the State of Illinois, Väänänen continues to perform classes and presentations for children and families, weaving his original music into inspiring lessons on Nature, history, culture, and adventure.
Midwest folk music legends!
Join Lauluaika for an hour of some of the finest Finnish and Finnish American folk music around! Their repertoire includes Finnish couples dances such as waltzes, polkas, humppa, jenkka (schottische), masurkka, and hambo, as well as lively group dances for all ages to enjoy.
ABOUT PRESENTERS: Lauluaika, Finnish for “Song Time,” is a group of musicians who share a passion for singing and playing Finnish folk tunes for audiences who enjoy listening or dancing.
Metku brings Finnish American dance tunes from upstate New York.
The Metku musicians are from the Finger Lakes Region of Upstate New York. Metku recently published a music book documenting their local Finnish American dance melodies and some of the history behind them. Metku will play some of these traditional dance tunes at the the Friday evening dance and also talk about them while collaboratively teaching Finnish social dance during the day.
ABOUT PRESENTER: Metku – Michael Ludgate (mandolin, kantele, banjo) and Katrina Mackey (fiddle, flute) have both been inspired by their Finnish ancestral heritage to learn more about traditional music and dance of Finland. The result is the band Metku. Katrina and Mike play as a duo but often are fortunate to have the super talented Philip Robinson (guitar) join for a trio and Richard Koski joins for a quartet. In addition to the traditional Finnish repertoire, we play traditional music for contra dances, square dances, private parties and weddings.
All instruments welcome!
Members of Lauluaika and Metku will help lead songs for everyone to play along with. All skill levels and instruments are welcome to join us for making music and making friends!
ABOUT PRESENTERS: Lauluaika and Metku are comprised of some of the most skilled and knowledgable musicians of traditional Finnish and Nordic music. They are also patient teachers and culture-bearers who understand the importance of passing this music on to younger generations.
Tervetuloa laulamaan!
Come sing songs from Salolampi Finnish Language camp in Bemidji, Minnesota with Tiina and Susanna! Words provided.
Tiina Watts and Susan Harstad have been singing together at Salolampi Finnish Village adult camps in northern Minnesota, as well as at Finnfests all over the country, for over 20 years! Tiina is the current adult week coordinator and “Susanna” has run the programs in the past. Susanna has also worked with the children at Salolampi during the summer. Tiina and Susanna love singing a variety of Finnish songs, from folk to pop to children’s songs, and especially love to have others join in the fun. Tervetuloa laulamaan!