Olli Vänskä (b. 1981) is a Finnish violinist best known for his long-standing role in the folk metal band TURISAS (2004–2018) as well as his current band KORPIKLAANI (2021–).

Raised in a musical family – his father is renowned conductor Osmo Vänskä – Olli was immersed in classical music from an early age. Despite formal training and early orchestral experience, he gravitated toward heavier genres, finding classical music too rigid for his expressive style. His transition from classical to metal was marked by a desire to explore new sonic territories and performance styles, often blending theatricality with technical skill.

Vänskä joined Turisas in 2004 and quickly became a defining element of the band’s sound, contributing electric and acoustic violin parts, backing vocals and songwriting. His violin playing is featured on each of the band’s albums, including debut album Battle Metal (2004), The Varangian Way (2007), Stand Up and Fight (2011) and Turisas2013 (2013). With Turisas, he has performed over 750 shows worldwide, including major tours across Europe, North America and Latin America.

Vänskä then joined Korpiklaani in 2021 after years of occasional live collaborations with the band. Initially stepping in as a substitute violinist during tours in 2016 and 2017, his official debut as a full member came with the 2024 album Rankarumpu, where he not only played violin but also contributed original compositions: he wrote or co-wrote tracks ”Saunaan”, ”Aita” and ”Kotomaa”. His energetic fiddle playing and songwriting brought a fresh dynamic to the band’s sound, helping steer Rankarumpu toward a more upbeat and catchy direction. Vänskä’s integration into Korpiklaani has been marked by mutual respect and creative openness, with the band embracing his musical ideas and expanding their folk metal palette.

In addition to his work with Korpiklaani and Turisas, Vänskä has released solo music. His debut single ”Deadline” (2021) marked a personal milestone and artistic statement. Independently produced and released around his 40th birthday, the track showcases Vänskä’s signature violin work layered with melodic vocals and introspective lyrics. The song blends folk-inspired motifs with modern metal production, featuring contributions from guitarist Matias Kupiainen (Stratovarius) and his brother Perttu Vänskä, who handled production and co-writing duties. Deadline received positive feedback for its emotional depth and musical craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into Vänskä’s individual voice outside of ensemble work.

Beyond his solo career, Korpiklaani and Turisas, Vänskä has collaborated with numerous other metal acts such as Finntroll, Moonsorrow, Wintersun and Chthonic, showcasing his versatility across subgenres from symphonic to folk metal.

In addition to his musical career, Vänskä has worked in tech media and, more recently, in PR and communications. His journalistic focus has often intersected with IT and digital culture, reflecting a curiosity-driven approach to storytelling. Vänskä’s dual career in music and media illustrates a rare blend of artistic and analytical thinking, with both paths rooted in a deep engagement with culture and communication.