The largest private music school in the Pirkanmaa region will be formed as Musiikkikoulu Sointula's operations are integrated into Musiikkikoulu Musiikkitoteemi starting in August. This arrangement will further enhance the overall service offering and support more seamless learning pathways. The official provider of this basic education in the arts, following the general syllabus, is Musiikkitoteemi Oy.
The over 100-year-old former office building of the Winter Paint Factory, located in Winterinmutka in Epilä, holds many stories within its walls. Musiikkikoulu Maija Salo, founded in 1986, began operating there in 1988. The building was renovated for educational use by the school’s teachers together with students’ parents and staff from YLE’s *Pikku Kakkonen* children’s program. The school’s founder, Maija Salo, is a pioneer in early childhood music education, and her beloved *muskari* (early music education) tradition has now continued for nearly 40 years. Hundreds of students—many of whom are now adults—took part in the activities Maija organized. Many also performed on YLE TV2’s children's programs, such as *Tenavatähti*, *Impromptu*, *Rytmireppu*, *Rytmiretki*, *Kukkuluuruu*, and *Pikku Kakkonen*. Today, Maija Salo’s former students are bringing their own children—and even grandchildren—to join the music groups, continuing a unique musical legacy.
After Maija Salo retired in 2007, the teachers of the music school continued its activities as a cooperative, and in 2017 the institution was renamed Musiikkikoulu Sointula. Starting in August 2024, instruction will be provided by Musiikkitoteemi, founded and led by principal Tomi Tolvanen. Following the merger, the school will have nearly 20 teachers and between 200 and 300 students. The quality and spirit of the early childhood music classes (*muskari*) will continue to be upheld, as will the high standard of personalized instrumental and vocal instruction. In addition, Musiikkitoteemi will celebrate its 20th anniversary in autumn 2024 with a series of special events.
FACTS ABOUT MUSIC SCHOOL MUSIIKKITOTEEMI
- WHERE: Sointula in Epilä, Toteemila in Tahmela, Vuores school
- WHAT: Music playschool, instrumental and vocal lessons
- FOR WHOM: From baby to retiree
- WHEN: Join any time of the year
- HOW: No entrance exams, registration via the Eepos form on the website
- Everyone is welcome
- Music playschool (muskari): from babies to themed play schools
- Individual instruction is available in at least the following instruments: acoustic guitars, electric guitar, bass, ukulele, voice, violin, cello, flute, piano, as well as drums and percussions.
