Facts about the Finnish language

Finnish immigrants have settled throughout North America. Michigan and Minnesota were among the largest centers of Finnish immigration in the past, and many of these communities are Finnish-American cultural centers today. Significant populations of native Finnish speakers are located Florida and Ontario.

Land of Music
Finland is a land of music. Folk music originates from the ancient storytellers, the Sami people of the north, the Nordic traditions of the west, and the Karelian songs of the east. There are several folk music festivals each year, as well as festivals for opera, classical music, rock and jazz, reflecting the forms of music popular among the Finns.

Finland has contributed greatly to the classical music world. One of the most famous composers native to Finland is Jean Sibelius. Sibelius is known for his Vocal Symphony, and Finlandia, a piece dedicated to his native land. Finland is known for its many orchestras and choirs, and Finnish conductors lead orchestras throughout the world.

Why learn Finnish?
· Finnish is useful. Did you know that in addition to being the official language of Finland, Finnish is also one of the official languages of the European Union, and is spoken in Sweden, Norway, Russia, and the Republic of Karelia? More than six million people speak Finnish worldwide. There are even significant populations of Finnish speakers in Florida, Ontario, Michigan, and Minnesota.

· Finnish connects you with the past. Imagine how fun it would be to chat with grandma in her native tongue, or to learn the history of your ancestors. Even if you just want to get an insider’s view of the rich history of northern Europe, Concordia Language Villages has what you need. At Salolampi, you’ll learn words, phrases, and the history and traditions of Finnish speaking people as you immerse yourself in a fun, culturally-authentic learning environment.

· Finnish helps you prepare for the future. Knowing more than one language is a great credential for any college application or job interview. And understanding another culture gives you an appreciation for new experiences that will last a lifetime.

· Finnish is fun! From the moment you get your Finnish “passport” and select your Finnish name, you’ll enjoy every minute of your Salolampi experience. New words, new foods, new songs, new games, new friends, and tons of care and attention from knowledgeable staff make learning Finnish at Salolampi an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.