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Loituma is a Finnish folk music ensemble known for their a cappella singing and traditional instrumentation, particularly the kantele. They gained global internet fame in the 2000s due to a viral animation featuring their song "Ievan Polkka". Formed in 1989 by Sibelius Academy students as Jäykkä Leipä, the group renamed itself Loituma in 1995. They specialize in traditional Finnish folk music, particularly from the Karelia region, often performed a cappella or with minimal accompaniment like the kantele. Their 1995 album "Things of Beauty" included "Ievan Polkka," which became a massive viral hit online years later. They have released several albums and performed internationally, maintaining a focus on Finnish folk traditions.

• The group's original name, Jäykkä Leipä, translates to "Stiff Bread" or "Hard Bread".
• Loituma's unexpected global fame came years after their album release. In the mid-2000s, an animated Flash loop (the "Loituma Girl" or "Leekspin" animation) featuring a character from the anime "Bleach" spinning a leek while "Ievan Polkka" played became a massive internet meme, exposing their music to millions worldwide.
• Despite the viral fame stemming from one song, Loituma's core work remains deeply rooted in authentic Finnish folk music research and performance, drawing heavily from the Karelian tradition and archival recordings.
• The original lineup featured Sanna Kurki-Suonio, Tellu Paulasto, Timo Väänänen, and Hanni-Mari Autere. While members have pursued solo projects, the group continues to perform periodically with various configurations.