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Composer Performer

 

Maija Makela was born on May 12, 1975, in Helsinki, Finland. She grew up in a family of musicians, with her mother being a pianist and her father a cellist. From a young age, Maija showed a natural talent for music and began playing the piano at the age of four. She later learned to play the violin and the cello, and by the age of 12, she had already composed her first piece of music. Maija's parents recognized her talent and encouraged her to pursue a career in music. She attended the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, where she studied composition under the guidance of renowned Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho. During her time at the academy, Maija also studied orchestration, music theory, and conducting. After graduating from the Sibelius Academy, Maija began working as a freelance composer, writing music for film, television, and theater productions. Her early works were heavily influenced by the Finnish classical music tradition, with a focus on melody and harmony. However, Maija was also interested in exploring new sounds and techniques, and she began incorporating electronic and experimental elements into her compositions. In 2003, Maija received a commission from the Finnish National Opera to write an opera based on the life of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. The resulting work, titled "Sibelius," premiered to critical acclaim and established Maija as one of the leading composers of her generation. Over the next decade, Maija continued to write music for a variety of mediums, including orchestral works, chamber music, and choral pieces. Her compositions were characterized by their emotional depth, intricate harmonies, and innovative use of instrumentation. One of Maija's most notable works is her Symphony No. 1, which premiered in 2010. The piece is a sweeping, four-movement work that showcases Maija's mastery of orchestration and her ability to create complex, multi-layered textures. The symphony has been performed by orchestras around the world and has cemented Maija's reputation as one of the most important composers of her generation. In addition to her work as a composer, Maija has also been an advocate for music education and has worked to promote the importance of music in schools. She has given lectures and workshops on music composition and has mentored young composers through various programs and initiatives. Maija's music has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the Finnish State Prize for Music in 2015. Her compositions have been performed by some of the world's leading orchestras and ensembles, and her influence on the contemporary classical music scene is undeniable. Today, Maija continues to write music and to inspire the next generation of composers. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of classical music have made her one of the most important voices in contemporary music.

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