Iitti Music Festival 16.–18.6.2005

Welcome to Iitti!

Some say that at the very best of concerts, the soloist rises on the wings of art to a plane that transcends all else. Energy and sound combine to create that which we call music. I personally experienced one such moment as soloist with the Prague Chamber Orchestra. Ever since, it has been my wish to bring this magnificent orchestra to Finland.

Now, three years later, this great venture is about to come true. The Iitti Music Festival is proud to be able to present the Prague Chamber Orchestra to a Finnish audience.

This summer I wanted to remain in Czech mood. Hence each of the concerts will include some Czech music. To represent contemporary Finnish music I have chosen Borealis by Erik Bergman. Professor Liisa Pohjola, an expert on Bergman, assured me that this impressive work has to be heard live. The experience will be unforgettable.

It is also a pleasure to welcome some new musicians to the festival this year: Kristian Attila, Hanna-Leena Haapamäki, Tommi Hakala, Sami Koskela and Réka Szilvay. All represent the same high "Iitti quality" to which we have become accustomed. Unique this summer is the exhibition Icons by Liisa Kuningas. The artist has chosen six icons to suit the music of Einojuhani Rautavaara and promised to tell about each of them.

I hope our audiences will go away richer in musical experiences, energy and strength.

– Laura Mikkola