Sibelius and Songs from the Northern Wilds

When Jean Sibelius was working on his intensely beautiful and dramatic Fifth Symphony, he already sensed he was creating something remarkable. “I’ve received a wonderful theme,” he noted in his diary. The inspiration came from seeing sixteen swans in flight – a moment that gave rise to the magnificent theme of the symphony’s final movement. “One of the great experiences of my life! My God, what beauty.”

We now experience Sibelius’ most performed and beloved symphony with the visiting Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Pekka Kuusisto – the orchestra’s Principal Guest Conductor. Known for his imaginative and surprising programming, Kuusisto has invited singer Katarina Barruk to join this concert. A few years ago, she released her second album, Ruhttuo.

Her evocative songs, sung in Ume Sámi – her mother tongue – are here given a magnificent symphonic setting. “I write all my music in the world’s most beautiful language, Ume Sámi. For me, it’s not a choice. I’m not doing it to make a point – it’s about being myself. Writing music in Ume Sámi is my way of inviting friends and audiences into my universe,” says Katarina Barruk.