The Lapland Chamber Orchestra is a classical music ensemble based in Rovaniemi, Finland. The orchestra was founded in 1972 by Jukka-Pekka Saraste, who served as its first conductor. The ensemble was initially formed as a chamber orchestra, but it has since expanded to include a full symphony orchestra. The Lapland Chamber Orchestra is known for its innovative programming and commitment to contemporary music. The ensemble has commissioned and premiered works by many Finnish composers, including Einojuhani Rautavaara, Magnus Lindberg, and Kaija Saariaho. The orchestra has also collaborated with international soloists and conductors, including Gidon Kremer, Vladimir Ashkenazy, and John Storgårds. The Lapland Chamber Orchestra has a core group of musicians who perform regularly with the ensemble. These musicians include violinists Pekka Kuusisto and Jaakko Kuusisto, cellist Samuli Peltonen, and clarinetist Christoffer Sundqvist. The orchestra also works with guest musicians and conductors on a regular basis. One of the highlights of the Lapland Chamber Orchestra's history was its performance at the 1995 Proms in London. The ensemble performed a program of Finnish music, including works by Sibelius, Rautavaara, and Lindberg. The performance was well-received by critics and helped to raise the profile of the orchestra internationally. The Lapland Chamber Orchestra has also received numerous awards and accolades throughout its history. In 2005, the ensemble was awarded the Finnish State Prize for Music, which is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a Finnish musician. The orchestra has also been recognized for its recordings, including a Grammy nomination for its recording of Rautavaara's "Cantus Arcticus" in 2002. In addition to its performances and recordings, the Lapland Chamber Orchestra is also committed to music education and outreach. The ensemble regularly works with schools and community organizations to bring classical music to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Overall, the Lapland Chamber Orchestra is a dynamic and innovative ensemble that has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. With its commitment to contemporary music and its talented core group of musicians, the orchestra is sure to continue to make an impact in the years to come.

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