Maria Kalaniemi & Marianne Maans

Maria Kalaniemi and Marianne Maans met in 1987 at the Sibelius Academy where they both studied at the folk music department. Their friendship and common interest in finland swedish folk music tradition led to the foundation of ”Ramunders döttrar” (The daughters of Ramunder). The ensemble has since performed at numerous festivals in Finland and abroad. The concert programs include gems from the folk music tradition as well as own unique arrangements; beautiful, both delicate and joyous instrumental and vocal music performed on violin and accordion.

Maria Kalaniemi is an internationally well known accordionist. Kalaniemi has performed widely in Finland and around the world, and she has renewed the understanding of the accordion and the accordion music. Kalaniemi has received many awards for her interpretations. In 2018 she received the State prize of music in Finland, and the same year she was elected member of The Royal Swedish Academy of Music.

Marianne Maans is a musician and a mental trainer. Her repertoire includes folk music, popular music and music for children. She has a great knowledge of the traditions in folk music and she actively performs in concerts, teaches at workshops and participates in various projects. In 2017 she received an award from the Swedish Cultural Foundation of Finland.