We have a collection of 11 arrangements for Loituma - Ievan Polkka
Who's behind the notes? Discover Loituma: Finnish Folk Ensemble and Internet Phenomenon
"Ievan Polkka" is a popular Finnish folk song performed by the Finnish quartet Loituma. The song gained international fame in the mid-2000s thanks to a meme known as "Leekspin" or "Loituma Girl." Here are some interesting facts about Loituma and "Ievan Polkka":
Traditional Finnish Folk Song: "Ievan Polkka" is a traditional Finnish polka song that originated in the early 20th century. It tells the story of a young woman named Ieva who is dancing at a village festival.
Loituma Quartet: Loituma is a Finnish quartet known for performing folk music. The group was formed in 1989 and consisted of four female members: Sari Kauranen, Anita Lehtola, Sanna Kurki-Suonio, and Tellu Turkka.
Internet Meme: In the mid-2000s, a looped animation featuring a character known as "Leekspin" or "Loituma Girl" dancing to "Ievan Polkka" became an internet meme. The catchy tune and repetitive animation made it a viral sensation.
The Leekspin Phenomenon: The meme typically featured an animation of an anime girl spinning a leek (a type of vegetable) while dancing to the tune of "Ievan Polkka." It gained popularity on various internet forums and websites.
International Recognition: Thanks to the meme, "Ievan Polkka" gained international recognition, and many people outside of Finland became familiar with the song. It has been remixed and covered by various artists and used in numerous internet videos.
Loituma's Reaction: Loituma was surprised by the sudden international fame of their song and the "Loituma Girl" meme. While the meme popularized their music, they were originally a folk group performing traditional Finnish songs.
Rekindled Interest in Finnish Folk Music: The popularity of "Ievan Polkka" and the Loituma quartet helped introduce Finnish folk music to a global audience. It sparked interest in exploring more traditional Finnish songs and cultural elements.
Cultural Impact: "Ievan Polkka" has been used in various forms of media, including video games, TV shows, and commercials. Its catchy melody continues to be associated with Finnish culture worldwide.
Loituma's Other Work: Loituma's repertoire extends beyond "Ievan Polkka." They have recorded and performed a wide range of Finnish folk songs, showcasing the rich musical heritage of Finland.
Legacy: While the meme may have introduced "Ievan Polkka" to many, it's important to remember that the song has a long history in Finnish folk music, and Loituma's performance is just one of many renditions of this traditional tune.
"Ievan Polkka" remains a notable example of how the internet can bring attention to obscure or lesser-known music, leading to unexpected international fame for a song and its performers.