Seven talented young musicians were selected as soloists for the Lahti Symphony Orchestra after the autumn qualifying rounds. The young people will perform in front of an audience at a concert in Lahti’s Sibelius Hall in January.
– It is truly precious, and a tremendous opportunity.
Yet a full-time solo career is only open to a few.
– For example, there are so many really good violinists. But the way to achieve your dreams is to apply for opportunities where you can play.
– When I saw the harp for the first time, I thought, what a wonderful instrument. That’s what I’d like to call. When I could still hear the sound of the harp, I was completely mesmerized.
It is his first time as a symphony orchestra soloist.
– I think it’s a really wonderful work. It makes versatile use of the sound range of the harp and different timbres.
He says that there are a few butterflies in the stomach during the performance, but in a good way.
Clear guidelines for a professional career
He is completing a bachelor’s degree in musicianship at the Lahti Conservatory with a minor in classical singing and at the same time studying for a matriculation degree.
Pirta Pöllänen already sees music as her future profession.
– I plan to apply to university to study at least solo violin. Yes, this will become a profession. I am not interested in a full-time soloist career, but my dream is to get the position of concertmaster.
Pirta Pöllänen finds music empowering and rewarding.
– It’s so great how you experience the music, and it’s just as valuable every time. That’s the reason why you do this.
Music multitasker
Matti Skyttä reached the final in the top six in the Turku cello competition in the fall.
– I have a phase where I try to do both cello and vocals as much as possible. I hope to be able to do both at some point.
In addition, the young musician is employed by gigging at various events, such as weddings, parties and funerals. Skyttä has also played in the orchestra of the National Opera.
There is no harm in being versatile, because the competition in the field is fierce.
– There are an awful lot of good cellists and singers in Finland. The competition is tough, but it also drives you forward. When there’s competition, it’s better to push through and improve in what you do.
Matti Skytä’s goal is to graduate from the Sibelius Academy with a master’s degree in Christmas 2023 or spring 2024.
