DESCRIPTION:
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Troka have been praised for their ability to bring a contemporary feel to folk music. Their sound is influenced by both the classical string quartet and traditional ensemble techniques.

VILLE OJANEN (fiddle, viola, mandolin) — Kappelin Pelimannit, Krannin Laki, Folkkarit (chief composer and arranger), Sikiät, Kairelan Prikaati, Ottoset dance group (arranger). Studies music in University of Jyväskylä. Composed music for dance theatre work HENRIK in Kaustinen, 1997. More recently has released a CD by his project Ville Ojanen and Rautavaara, also involved with previous projects Loiskis Children's Music Orchestra, Qwenland and Arctic Factory. Produced the debut album by group Snekka.

MATTI MÄKELÄ (fiddle) — First group Kropsu, age 14. Followed by Kappelin Pelimannit, Krannin Laki, Sikiät and JPP. Also studied classical music in Stockholm and in Kokkola Conservatory.

JOHANNA JUHOLA (accordion) — Studies at Sibelius Academy Folk Music Department. Previously with group Mimmit and has performed in several Finnish tango orchestras. More recent projects include Duo Milla Viljamaa & Johanna Juhola, Las Chicas del Tango, Spontaani Vire and Novjaro. Also works with Timo Alakotila and violinist Pekka Kuusisto.

TIMO ALAKOTILA (harmonium, piano) — Isät ja Pojat, Järvelän Pelimannit, Hot Club de Kairela, JPP, Järvelän Näppärit, Maria Kalaniemi & Aldargaz, Luna Nova. Composed four part work, "Folkmoods West", for JPP and big band. Teaches at Sibelius Academy Folk Music Department and at Helsinki Pop and Jazz Conservatory. Composes and arranges and produces for many well known Finnish artists, in folk music and other genres.

ANTTI JÄRVELÄ (double bass) - Multi-intrumentalist lays with JPP and Frigg as well as other lesser known bands.