Why was Loiskis founded? How did the orchestra get its name and its distinctive frog logo? What controversy did the establishment of a publicly funded children’s music orchestra spark within Finland’s cultural circles in the early 2000s—at a time when state support was traditionally reserved for classical ensembles catering to adult audiences? In addition to these burning questions, visitors will have the opportunity to explore Loiskis’ most memorable works, projects, and concerts.

The exhibition features a rich selection of audio samples, records, videos, animated music clips, printed materials, and photographs. Visitors can gain insight into the daily life of a children’s musician through first-hand accounts from the orchestra’s players, recorded interviews, and a touring map. Also on display are instruments and stage costumes used by the ensemble, as well as an introduction to the orchestra’s administration and its key funding bodies.

A significant section of the exhibition is dedicated to the visual art of Clown Dodo (Jari Siljamäki), Loiskis’ longtime guest performer. His bold and colourful paintings and sculptures showcase influences from Mexican naïve art, adding yet another layer to the exhibition’s lively atmosphere.

The exhibition script has been adapted by Ilja Koivisto, Curator at the Museum of Central Finland, from the upcoming book Siksi oLi LoiskiS – 25 Years of a Children’s Music Orchestra by Hilda Ivars and Oona-Emilia Enkelsaari, set to be published in 2025. The exhibition is produced by the Museum of Central Finland in collaboration with Loiskis.

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Loiskis in Brief

The idea of establishing a professional children’s music orchestra in Jyväskylä emerged from discussions between Pentti Rasinkangas and Markku Rinta-Pollari in the late 1990s. Both had toyed with the concept independently until a conversation brought the idea to life. To bring the orchestra into existence, an association was formally founded on 18 April 2000, which then began seeking funding.

A visit to Pekka Kettunen, then Mayor of Jyväskylä, led to a two-year EU grant that enabled Loiskis to begin operations. Additional funding—continuing to this day—was provided by the City of Jyväskylä. Musicians were selected through an open application process, with the final decisions made by the association’s board. This marked the beginning of Loiskis’ journey, which has now spanned 25 years. In later years, the orchestra came under the funding scheme of Finland’s Ministry of Education and Culture.

Over the years, Loiskis’ lineup has evolved, and the orchestra has collaborated with a variety of guest artists, including Arja Koriseva, Aki Hietala, Eeva-Leena Pokela, Eija Ahvo, Susanna Haavisto, Clown Dodo, Satu Sopanen, Sari Kanala, Mikko Perkoila, and Tuomo Rannankari.

Today, Loiskis consists of musicians Pekka Nättinen, Tomi Nurmi, Marianne Oivo, and Leevi Pukki. The association also employs a full-time producer, Oskar Tunderberg.

To celebrate its 25th anniversary, Loiskis is marking the occasion in multiple ways. In addition to the exhibition, the anniversary year will see the release of a book on the orchestra’s history, a songbook, and a special edition album. The celebrations will also include anniversary concerts, some of which will take place within the exhibition space at the Aalto2 Museum Centre.

Exhibition inquiries:
Senior Curator Ilja Koivisto
ilja.koivisto@jyvaskyla.fi
+358 50 311 8879