Yhteyskappale

Yhteyskappale refers to a Finnish term used in the context of music and broadcasting, particularly in relation to public service broadcasting. The term translates roughly to "connection piece" or "linking piece" in English, and it describes short musical interludes or segments that are used to connect different parts of a broadcast program, such as radio or television shows, news segments, or advertisements. These pieces often serve to smooth transitions between content, maintain audience engagement, and enhance the overall flow of the program.

In Finnish public broadcasting, such as that produced by Yle (Yleisradio), yhteyskappale plays a functional role in maintaining continuity. They may include instrumental music, jingles, or even short vocal segments designed to align with the tone or theme of the program. These segments are typically composed or selected to fit the specific context, whether it be news, cultural programming, or entertainment.

The use of yhteyskappale is not limited to Finland, as similar concepts exist in other countries under different names, such as "stinger" or "bumper" in English-language broadcasting. However, the term itself is uniquely Finnish and reflects the country’s emphasis on structured and audience-friendly media production. These pieces are often created by in-house composers or selected from existing libraries to ensure they align with the programming guidelines of public service broadcasters, which prioritize accessibility, cultural relevance, and educational value.