By Nathan Lee, TLE Correspondent
The BBC Symphony Orchestra is to perform at the Sibelius Festival in Finland to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the famous Finnish composer Jean Sibelius.
Unique celebrations will take place over a week from 31st August – 6th September at the 16th Sibelius festival to honour the distinguished composer’s life and work. Visitors can enjoy six orchestral concerts directed by the renowned conductors Okko Kamu, Osmo Vänskä, Jukka-Pekka Saraste, Sakari Oramo and Leif Segerstam performed at the spectacular Sibelius Hall in Lahti.
The BBC Symphony Orchestra will present two concerts throughout the week, one conducted by the world renowned Finnish conductor Okko Kamu, who started his successful career at the Finnish National Opera and the other by it’s principle conductor Sakari Oramo. Performances will include two of Sibelius’ most loved works: the Violin Concerto with young Russian virtuoso Sergei Malov and the Symphony No. 2.
“Sibelius is an important part of life in Finland and we are pleased to honour his influential work at this annual festival in Lahti,” said Eva Kiviranta, Communications Coordinator, Visit Finland. “We are delighted to welcome the BBC Symphony Orchestra during this significant year and look forward to celebrating together.”
The Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra and Lahti Symphony Orchestra will join the BBC Symphony Orchestra to mark this significant occasion. Visitors can enjoy performances of all of Sibelius’ major orchestral works including all seven symphonies. Chamber concerts and other Sibelius themed events will take place throughout the week.
In addition to the Sibelius Festival, various events will take place across Finland to celebrate the composer’s life. Visitors to the spectacular Sibelius Monument in Sibelius Park, Töölo will be serenaded by his music as they pass various spruce, pine, birch, aspen and rowan trees. Plaques with QR codes will direct passers by to the specific music online as they enjoy Sibelius’ art surrounded by nature.
How: Stay at the remote Lehmonkärki Villas and enjoy magnificent views of Lake Päijänne with prices starting at €700 for one week. Finnair flies to Helsinki daily from London and Manchester with fares starting from £191 return.
For more details about Visit Finland, please visit www.visitfinland.com