Language/Finnish/Culture/Finnish-Music
As a Finn and a Finnish language teacher, I am excited to introduce you to Finland's music scene. From traditional folk music to modern pop, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this lesson, we will explore Finnish music, including its history, genres, and popular artists.
History of Finnish Music
Music has been an essential part of Finnish culture for centuries. Most traditional Finnish music features instruments like the kantele (a type of zither), accordion, and violin. One of the earliest forms of Finnish folk music is runolaulu, which consists of singing poems or stories. Another is kieliposki, a form of improvisational music usually performed with an accordion or harmonica.
In the early 20th century, Finnish music started to incorporate different European styles, such as classical music and tango. In the 1960s and 1970s, Finnish rock and pop music gained popularity, with bands like Hurriganes and Finntroll. Today, Finnish music continues to evolve, with artists experimenting with different genres and international influences.
Traditional Finnish Music
If you are interested in immersing yourself in Finnish culture, you should check out traditional Finnish music. Here are some examples of Finnish folk music:
- "Säkkijärven polkka" - This is a famous Finnish polka that originated in the Karelia region.
- "Järvien kalat" - This is a traditional Finnish fishing song.
- "Kun mun kultani tulisi" - This is a traditional Finnish love song.
These songs can be found on many websites and streaming platforms, like Spotify and YouTube. Listening to them can help you get a feel for traditional Finnish culture and language.
Here is an example of one of Finland's traditional instruments, the kantele:
| Finnish | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| kantele | /ˈkɑnteːle/ | kantele, a type of zither |
Popular Finnish Artists
Finland has produced many talented musicians who have gained popularity not only in Finland but also around the world. Here are some examples of popular Finnish artists:
- Nightwish - This symphonic metal band has sold over nine million albums and DVDs worldwide.
- Darude - This electronic dance music artist is known for his hit song "Sandstorm."
- Alma - This pop singer has become a rising star both in Finland and globally with her catchy, upbeat songs.
- Apocalyptica - This band is known for their unique sound of heavy metal played on cellos.
These artists represent different genres and styles of music, and they all have been part of the Finnish music scene.
Finnish Music Genres
In addition to traditional and popular music, Finland has developed its own music genres that are rooted in its history and culture. Here are some examples:
- Iskelmä - A type of popular music that originated in Finland in the 1960s. Iskelmä combines elements of pop, rock, and schlager music.
- Rap - Finnish rap has gained popularity in recent years, with artists like Cheek and JVG rapping in Finnish.
- Humppa - A type of Finnish dance music that originated in the early 20th century, often played with an accordion and accompanied by dance.
Each genre offers a unique perspective into Finnish culture and provides opportunities for language learners to expand their vocabulary and immerse themselves in the Finnish language.
Conclusion
Finnish music offers a rich and diverse collection of traditional, popular, and experimental songs that allow you to explore Finnish culture and language. By listening to traditional folk music, discovering contemporary artists, and exploring the different genres, you can gain insight into the Finnish way of life while improving your language skills. So, take some time to explore the different Finnish music options and see what catches your ear!
Videos
Traditional Finnish folk music - Folktale - YouTube
Filming Finnish American Folk Dance Music in Michigan's Upper ...
Related Lessons
- Finnish Society and Values
- Finnish Cuisine
- Finnish Film Industry
- Finnish Mythology and Legends
- Finnish Holidays and Festivals
- Finnish Sauna
- Holidays and Celebrations
- Finnish Literature
- Finland Timeline