An All Music Sunday: Finnish Singing Duo “Vellamo”

FINNISH SINGING DUO “VELLAMO” IN CONCERT

Vellamo is led by the performing and songwriting team of Pia Leinonen and Joni Tiala.  Their eight visit to the US will include a Sunday morning concert will be in our chapel.  Their music features ethereal Finnish folk with gorgeous vocals and memorable melodic hooks, “baptized by trolls and Norse elves.”  In Finnish mythology, Vellamo is the goddess of the sea. Based in Kokkola, on the western coast of Finland, Vellamo combines the rich tradition of Finnish folksong with an appealing “retro” sensibility, creating a modern folk music experience.

Pia Leinonen, originally from the arctic region of Lapland, is Vellamo’s lead singer. Her exquisite voice combines her love and vast knowledge of Finnish folk music with the western singer–songwriter tradition in a unique and beautiful way.

Joni Tiala, originally from the Finnish port of Kokkola, began playing guitar at the age of 11. His eclectic musical background includes writing and performing for theater, progressive and alternative rock and Finnish and western folk. In addition to his work in Vellamo, Joni is an accomplished theater and session musician, and is founding member of the renowned Finnish progressive rock band, Moon Wagon.

In addition to shows in their homeland, Vellamo spends half of each year touring abroad; their adventures have led them throughout the United States, Europe and New Zealand.

Photo by Sami Koski-Vähälä