The Choir Concerto by Alfred Schnittke draws on the Romantic Orthodox choral tradition in the manner of, say, Rachmaninov’s or Rautavaara’s All-Night Vigil. The texts are richly poetic, heartrendingly emotional prayers by the Armenian Gregory of Narek (950–1005). Joining forces for the performance of this massive work are the Somnium and Emo ensembles conducted by Elisa Huovinen.

A singer with a magnificent voice and a sensitive interpreter, Emma Salokoski is a front-line Finnish artist. The greatest Emma Salokoski hits come to life in duo arrangements inspired by Finnish nature and rhythm music from all over the world. Joining her for these is Jarmo Saari, one of the most original guitarists of his generation.

The Nieguid duovdagat (Dreamscapes) programme of Sámi musician Ánnámáret transports its audience to imaginary fells. It draws on both the rich Sámi yoik tradition and the living culture, nature and everyday life of the Sámi region of Lapland, conveying the listener to powerfully experiential worlds. These ingredients acquire a form that sounds and resonates in the present day, reflecting a search for roots and the revival of tradition, both their good and their more difficult aspects. The members of Ánnámáret’s ensemble are Turkka Inkilä, Japanese shakuhachi flute and electronics, and Ilkka Heinonen, bowed lyre. Joining them as guests are Kino Soi’s Hanna Hohti, viola, and Liina-Mari Raivola, cello. The visuals are by Marja Viitahuhta.

Some 20 years ago, a manuscript nowadays known as Carlo G was found at a flea market just outside Vienna. The author of the 81 pieces of 17th century Italian music it contained is still a mystery, for his or her name is mentioned only at one point and is difficult to read. Most of the pieces have been ascribed to this enigmatic Carlo G, but there are mong them also some by other contemporaries, including a previously unknown work by the notable composer Giulio Caccini. The pieces chosen for VocalEspoo will now receive their first performance in Finland.

VocalEspoo, the Sibelius Academy Department of Music Technology and Musica nova have launched a joint project designed to generate new music for voice and electronics. Together, composers and singers are creating works charting the unknown human and technological borderlands. Concert versions of the works will be heard at VocalEspoo, and installation adaptations of the same material will be processed for Musica nova. The project singers are soprano Tuuli Lindeberg, Artistic Director of Musica nova, and tenor Taavi Oramo, Artistic Director of VocalEspoo.

Taavi Oramo, tenor & Joel Papinoja, piano
Free admission