We have a collection of 13 arrangements for Loituma - Ievan Polkka
What Finnish folk song became a global meme through a looping animation? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Loituma: Finnish Folk Ensemble and Internet Phenomenon
"Ievan Polkka" is a popular Finnish song performed by the musical group Loituma. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the group:
Origin: "Ievan Polkka" is a traditional Finnish song that Loituma popularized. The melody is based on a Karelian polka and the lyrics are in the Savo dialect.
Loituma: The group Loituma is a Finnish quartet that was formed in 1989. The members include singers Sanna Kurki-Suonio and Anita Lehtola, with Tellu Turkka playing the kantele (a traditional Finnish instrument) and Hannu Rantanen playing the accordion.
Viral Internet Meme: The song gained international fame in the mid-2000s when a looped segment of the song accompanied by an animation of the character Hatsune Miku (a vocaloid) went viral on the internet. This resulted in the "Leekspin" meme, and the catchy tune became widely recognized.
Cultural Impact: The meme brought attention to traditional Finnish music and culture, introducing many people around the world to "Ievan Polkka" and the unique sound of the kantele.
Finnish Folk Music: Loituma's music is rooted in Finnish folk traditions, and they are known for incorporating traditional instruments and vocal styles into their performances.
Albums: Loituma has released several albums, showcasing their versatility in exploring different facets of Finnish folk music. Some of their albums include "Kuutamolla" and "In the Moonlight."
Kantele: The kantele, played by Tellu Turkka, is a traditional Finnish instrument with a unique sound. It has a series of strings stretched over a wooden frame and is played by plucking the strings.
"Ievan Polkka" remains a popular and recognizable piece of Finnish music, both in its traditional form and as part of internet culture through the viral meme.