IIPC Debate 114, Thu 10 March 2:15 pm Seminar room Arcanum A270 (Arcanuminkuja 1, University of Turku)
Also online: https://utu.zoom.us/j/65344619502 (the host will let you in)
Songs of the North – the Journey of Finnish Heavy Metal Into the World
Professori Toni-Matti Karjalainen (Sibelius Academy, University of the Arts Helsinki)
The IIPC Debate is based on a recent book of Toni-Matti Karjalainen, Pohjoisen laulut – Suomalaisen hevimetallin matka maailmalle (Docendo, 2021), compiled from his research on the export of Finnish heavy metal music, trade of cultural narratives, and the country brand of Finland. The compilation Made in Finland – Studies in Popular Music (Routledge, 2020), edited with Kimi Kärki, is also reflected in the talk.
The development of Finnish heavy metal from low recognition to the leading star of Finland’s cultural exports and the cornerstone of our nation brand is an unparalleled story. In addition to creativity and perseverance, the four-decade sky includes hard work and lucky coincidences. The presentation dismantles the main stages and background of this development and provides colourful snapshots from the history. The aim is to describe how the image of Finland conveyed by heavy metal was constructed, particularly in the international media.
“Finnish metal is the synonym of high-quality music” (Carlos López, fan of Finnish metal, Mexico)
“Finland has become the cradle of metal music in the world” (Tuomas Holopainen, Nightwish)
“The bands and their music are in many cases exactly the channel through which people get interested in Finland” (Antti Hyyrynen, Stam1na).
Toni-Matti Karjalainen, Doctor of Arts, is a professor of art management and entrepreneurship at the Sibelius Academy of the University of the Arts Helsinki. He also has the Title of Docent in music management and culture export at Aalto University School of Business, where he previously worked as Academy Research Fellow and Research Director. In addition to a wide range of studies and publications in the fields of design management, branding, product development and creative teamwork, Karjalainen has studied Finnish metal exports and personally witnessed the gigs of several bands on the spot around the world. He has been a heavy user of heavy metal and rock since 1984.
More information:
http://tonimattikarjalainen.info
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