During his lifetime, Oskar Merikanto (1868–1924) was the most popular composer at Finnish homes. Even today, in events such as weddings or funerals, his pieces are widely heard and performed. Merikanto was an excellent pianist and organist and possessed a particular gift in writing memorable melodies. Enjoying great popularity, Merikanto wrote over 200 songs, a number of duets and also several choral works, and nearly 200 piano works. Year 2024 marks the 100th anniversarys from the death of Oskar Merikanto. To celebrate this anniversary year, baritone Waltteri Torikka is presenting 29 melodies by Oskar Merikanto through this album. Signed by Warner in 2015, Waltteri Torikka topped the Finnish pop charts for 3 weeks in 2018, performs frequently in European opera festivals and music festivals, and has also performed at the BBC Proms.
1. Pai pai paitaressu
2. Itkevä huilu
3. Illansuussa
4. Soi vienosti murheeni soitto
5. Hyvästi!
6. Metsäkyyhkyset
7. Kuin hiipuva hiillos tummentuu
8. Vanha mummo
9. Onneton
10. Kevätlinnuille etelässä
11. Merellä
12. Yö
13. Syyslaulu
14. Mummo
15. Elämälle!
16. Rukous
17. Laulaja taivaan portilla
18. Käy kirkkomaata illoin vanhat mummot
19. Hyvää yötä
20. Suvi-illan vieno tuuli
21. Laatokka
22. Reppurin laulu
23. Balladi
24. Nocturne
25. Marjatan kehtolaulu
26. Aurinko laski
27. Iltakellot
28. Oi, muistatko vielä sen virren
29. Kullan murunen