Join Bill Väänänen who will be leading an afternoon set of music on the Tori stage. Bill will perform several of his own unique compositions created just for FinnFest mixed with favorite folk songs that are perfect for family sing-alongs. Bring the kids for this one! They may even end up onstage with “Mr. V!”

Performer Bio: 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.