BOREALLAS / categories
BOREALLAS 1–4 OCTOBER 2026 + SUMMER PRE-EVENTS
PRE-EVENTS 30 MAY, 27 JUNE, 4 JULY, 11 JULY AND 18 JULY
SUMMER EVENTS ON THE MUSIIKKITALO TERRACE
The Boreallas summer pre-events took place as terrace events at Musiikkitalo. The programme included baroque music, folk music and improvised opera inspired by the spirit of the Baroque.
SÄVELVIRTA – STREAM OF SOUND
A variety of performances, such as musical moments in the Musiikkitalo foyer, offer a refreshing experience for the soul. The programme includes choirs, performances by masterclass participants, baroque dance and presentations by the Finnish Baroque Orchestra’s audience engagement projects.
PINNAN ALLA – BELOW THE SURFACE
The panel discussions explore topics such as class issues in opera, LGBTQIA+ themes and new approaches to creating baroque opera. Alongside opera, the discussions also turn to Nordic cooperation and the roots of baroque music, folk music and folk dance. Short talks offer glimpses into topics ranging from international radio interviews to concert booking and sales. The speakers and performers include Marissa Mehr, Henna Tanskanen, Vera Plosila and Thomas de Mallet Burgess.
LÄHTEILLÄ – AT THE SOURCE
The masterclasses are partly open to the public. The courses are organised in collaboration with, among others, the Sibelius Academy and professional orchestras in the Helsinki metropolitan area. Choral singers are invited to join the 3D final choir led by Justin Doyle.
KUPLASSA – IN THE BUBBLE
Open rehearsals offer a chance to experience the dynamics of the rehearsal process up close. Who says what, how and to whom? An essential part of the Aria Borealis competition is that the singers are an integral part of the musical whole. They therefore develop their interpretations together with the orchestra musicians.
SUKELLA SEKAAN – DIVE IN
You can also jump into the Boreallas and swim around yourself … or try out some dance steps or give an opera a makeover. What if Mimì didn’t die, as she does in Puccini’s La Bohème?
VIRRAN VARRELLA – BY THE STREAM
The beautiful city of Helsinki surrounds the event venues, such as Musiikkitalo and Ritarihuone. Juhani Styrman leads a city walk that ends with a concert.
POREALLAS – HOT POOL
The artists’ free time includes coffee and other moments of togetherness, perhaps by the swimming pool. The public is also welcome to join some of the artists’ leisure activities.
