Finnish musician reflects on childhood pressures and rediscovery of accordion joy

Olli-Pekka Niemi, a 36-year-old from Helsinki, began playing the accordion at the Riihimäki Music Institute when he was in first grade. Initially aspiring to play the guitar like his cousin, he did not pass the entrance exams for guitar but found a spot in the accordion program. Out of a desire to please his parents, who valued musical skills, he started accordion lessons. He recalls feeling inadequate due to his lack of practice, stating, “I was embarrassed, but I simply didn’t have the passion for playing.”

The issue of children feeling pressured to engage in hobbies is highlighted by several respondents who shared similar experiences with Yle. According to Statistics Finland, creative hobbies are very common among children, with over 80% of 10-14-year-olds participating in some form of creative activity. However, Mirja Kataja, chair of the Finnish Psychological Association’s children and youth committee, suggests that children should not feel obligated to have hobbies and that social discussions are needed on this topic.

Niemi’s experiences reveal the pressure to perform, as he recalls panic before public performances, even getting physically ill. During his teenage years, he felt ashamed of the accordion’s image and longed for acceptance. His father noted that they were unaware of the signs of his discontent, believing he just needed encouragement. Eventually, Niemi found joy in playing drums, reflecting that he enjoyed it far more than the accordion.

Now, at 36, he expresses a desire to revisit playing the accordion, as the embarrassment of his youth has faded, allowing him to appreciate his musical journey and the applause he received during school performances.