PELIMANNI ORCHESTRA OF THUNDER BAY

Pelimanni Orchestra was established in 1986 in Thunder Bay, Ontario by immigrant Finnish musicians. Pelimanni Orchestra's mandate is to help preserve and promote the heritage of Finnish music culture.

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We are a group of approximately 20 musicians, ranging in age from 20-80+. Pelimanni Orchestra is an opportunity for musicians and volunteers to participate and be involved in a large orchestra. We welcome new musicians to join! Understanding or speaking Finnish language is not mandatory! We have the following instruments in our orchestra currently:

accordion, violin, flute, clarinet, guitar, bass, rhythm instruments, drums, saxophone (soprano, alto, tenor) and trumpet.

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OUR REPERTOIRE:

Our repertoire contains not only Finnish music but also International folk and dance music as well as religious music. Jorma Pellinen, of Finland, has been arranging a lot of our music.  We are very grateful for his cooperation and expertise.

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REHEARSALS:

We hold regular practices twice a month.  Practices are weekly prior to a performance.  

 

PERFORMANCES:

We perform at long-term care facilities, Finnish and multicultural festivals, and typically have one fundraising concert per year.

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In July 2017, we had an amazing experience touring Finland for the Finland-100 celebrations! On our 10 day tour, we performed 11 concerts and one highlight was performing at the Kaustinen Folk Music Festival.

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We participate in cultural activities with organizations, such as Finnish War Veteran's Association, Canadian Suomi Foundation and Hilldale Lutheran Church. 

Here is a list of typical activities:

• Pelimanni Orchestra Annual Coffee Concert 

• Finnish Independence Day (Location:  Hilldale Lutheran Church)

• Christmas Sing-along  (Location:  Hilldale Lutheran Church)

• St. Urho's Day

• Performances at Seniors' Homes (The Walford, Pioneer Ridge, Jasper Place, Hogarth)

KAUKO KIVI ARTS FUND AWARD:

In 1996, Pelimanni initiated the "Kauko Kiviluoma Arts Fund" through the Canadian Suomi Foundation.  The fund is in memory of the previous music director and popular Thunder Bay musician Kauko Kiviluoma, and awards bursaries to promising young artists or musicians.  The Orchestra continues to participate in the Fund.

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FIND AND CONTACT US:

You can check us out on Facebook PelimanniOrchestra or email pelimanni.tbay@gmail.com if you are interested in learning more about our group.