FinnFest 2023 and a One Man Band

From Oulu, Wisconsin to Finland, Minnesota, our region has one of the strongest Finnish connections anywhere — outside of Finland, that is. It’s being celebrated this week at FinnFest 2023, billed as “North America’s premier experience of Nordic culture and learning,” held at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. Organizers Heli Sirvioe and Alison Aune-Hinkel join “Simply Superior” host Robin Washington to discuss the events, ranging from performances by the FinnFest Symphony Orchestra to a celebration of “Finnishinaabe” culture — people who identify with both Finnish and American Indigenous ancestry.

Also, he’s a member of a 23-piece band — its only member. Steve Solkela is a classically trained musician who has put that education to work playing an impossible number of instruments at once. Making his shows even more interesting (and hilarious) is what he plays: songs accentuated by a mix-up of unpredictable prop comedy, dangerous stunts, and carnival-like musical style. Solkela shares his talents with Washington ahead of his FinnFest performance on Saturday.