Role

:

Ensemble

Period

:

Modern

Genre

:

Orchestral

 

 

Symphony

 

The Oulu Symphony Orchestra is a classical music ensemble based in Oulu, Finland. The orchestra was founded in 1972 and has since become one of the most renowned orchestras in Finland. The ensemble is made up of approximately 70 musicians, including a conductor, concertmaster, and principal players for each section. The Oulu Symphony Orchestra has had several conductors throughout its history, including Juha Kangas, Arvo Volmer, and Johannes Gustavsson. Kangas served as the orchestra's principal conductor from 1985 to 2008 and is credited with bringing the orchestra to international prominence. Under his leadership, the orchestra performed at several major music festivals, including the BBC Proms in London and the Salzburg Festival in Austria. The orchestra has also collaborated with several notable soloists, including pianist Olli Mustonen, violinist Pekka Kuusisto, and cellist Truls Mørk. In 2009, the orchestra performed with renowned soprano Karita Mattila in a concert that was broadcast live on Finnish television. The Oulu Symphony Orchestra has received several awards and accolades throughout its history. In 1993, the orchestra was awarded the Finnish State Prize for Music, which is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a Finnish musician or ensemble. The orchestra has also been recognized for its commitment to contemporary music, having premiered several works by Finnish composers. One of the orchestra's most notable performances took place in 2008, when it performed the world premiere of Einojuhani Rautavaara's Symphony No. 8. The piece was commissioned by the orchestra and was Rautavaara's final symphony before his death in 2016. The performance was conducted by Juha Kangas and was met with critical acclaim. In addition to its regular concert series, the Oulu Symphony Orchestra is also involved in several community outreach programs. The orchestra regularly performs for school groups and participates in educational programs that aim to introduce young people to classical music. Overall, the Oulu Symphony Orchestra has established itself as one of the premier classical music ensembles in Finland. With its commitment to contemporary music and its dedication to community outreach, the orchestra has become a beloved institution in the city of Oulu and beyond.

More....