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Säkkijärven
Polka
The Finnish polka repertoire includes many tunes in minor keys,
the result, perhaps, of Russian musical influences. This song exalts
the beauty of Karelia, a territory of ethnic Finns just east of
Finland, which remains a part of Russia and the town of Säkkijärven,
which was ceded to Russia after the war. According to Bill Kangas,
" Säkkijärven Polka" was used during the Russo-Finnish
Wars of 1938 and 1941-44. During a crucial point in the war, the
Finns are said to have played this song for three days straight.
Performed by Glenn Lahti (accordion), LeRoy Lahti (accordion), Bill
Kangas (drums and vocals).
(Smithsonian Folkways Recordings album #40088 1998)
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Maailman Matti
This song is attributed to Hiski Saaloma, a Finnish immigrant to Northern
Michigan, a tailor with a talent for writing topical songs that reflected
his leftist views. A master of irony, Hiski humorously glorifies the
Finnish itinerant worker - Matti, the man of the world. Performed
by Glenn Lahti (accordion), LeRoy Lahti (accordion), Bill Kangas (drums
and vocals). (Smithsonian Folkways Recordings album #40088 1998)
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