New music for curious ears

Tampere Biennale, a festival for contemporary Finnish music, will take place in Tampere, Finland on 18–22 April. The festival is now curated for the first time by its new Artistic Director, composer Olli Virtaperko.

This year's festival promises to bring both challenges and pleasures for the curious ears. The programme includes eight world premieres by Finnish composers, including a new big band work by Mikko Heiniö, a choral work by Maija Hynninen, as well as chamber music by Harri Vuori.

The programme highlights works for various ensembles and performers, from the symphony concerts by Tampere Philharmonic Orchestra to solo lunch time concerts, presenting for example contemporary music for period instruments. Accordionist Veli Kujala will have a recital with his quarter tone accordion, and the defunensemble will bring some electro-acoustic music to the festival. This year's guest from abroad will be The Bugallo-Williams Piano Duo, celebrating the centenary of Conlon Nancarrow in its concert.

In the evening clubs, the festival expands beyond the traditional boundaries of contemporary music, bringing well known folk music artists Spontaani Vire and Jouko Kyhälä to the stage. The line between progressive rock and jazz will be explored in the concert of Pekka Pohjola Group and Frank Zappa Memorial Pancace Breakfast. The festival ends with a concert by Finnish schlager group Dallapé, playing for example two new works by composers Kirmo Lintinen and Yrjö Hjelt in city's main concert house, Tampere Hall.

Merja Hottinen / Fimic
14 February, 2012