Original songs written for FinnFest 2025!

Hear accomplished songwriter, pianist, and award-winning music educator Bill Väänänen share his original suite of new songs dedicated to our 2025 FinnFest and all those of Finnish-descent. A composer of over 500 songs and 80+ musical plays for children, Bill has spent his career creating music that is relevant and inspiring. Bill’s unique songs for his “Suomi Suite” will cover a wide range of topics regarding Finnish history and culture as seen through the eyes of a man who grew up in Oklahoma, far from the northern lakes and forests. The Suite will be accompanied by a slide show featuring text, animation, and imagery.

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.