Maria Kalaniemi & Pekko Käppi: Tåreportens Pärla, Kyynelportin helmi - Etno-Espa

In the hands of Maria Kalaniemi and Pekko Käppi, the Kalevala became Swedish-language rune singing - a story about music's inexplicable power to move the heart.

Tåreportens Pärla was released digitally on New Year's Day and as a CD on 9 January 2026. The album features powerful harmonies, delicate melodies, and resonant church bells sounding together.

Over a career spanning more than 40 years, Maria Kalaniemi has transformed the understanding of the accordion and the music played on it. She has performed in Vienna's concert halls and Tokyo's festival halls, brought award-winning attention to Swedish-Finnish musical heritage, and composed extensively. In 2018, she received the state music prize and membership in the Royal Swedish Academy of Music.

Pekko Käppi specializes in playing the jouhikko and archaic unwritten singing traditions. His stripped-down performances have captivated audiences both at home and on international stages.

Maria Kalaniemi - accordion and vocals
Pekko Käppi - jouhikko and vocals