THE MANY FACES OF PHILOMELA

Philomela’s repertoire consists of contemporary compositions, that are often written especially for Philomela. The music Philomela sings could be described as the voice of choir music today. It is modern Nordic music, where the fresh meets the dark, new meets the ancient, and tradition meets modernity.

Philomela’s performances are intense and surprising, energetic and touching. The group realises many different types of productions, and has found its place in the realm of music theatre and performative productions. This is reflected in Philomela’s large repertoire, which is performed in thematic concert programmes and music theatre productions. Different programmes combine Philomela’s unique and strong way of combining voice and movement. Over the years Philomela has performed in many different spaces and occasions.

Philomelan joulu – Philomela’s Christmas

Touching concerts full of peace. Includes both traditional and modern songs composed and newly arranged for Philomela.

Suden aika – The Time of Wolf

Based on Kalevala poetry and folk song, The Time of Wolf has become Philomela’s most essential work. It is a story about a woman’s journey into her soul and finding herself; of mistakes in life and the price one has to pay for them. The piece is composed by Tellu Virkkala (now Turkka) and directed by Päivi Järvinen. The Time of Wold is a very intimate, emotion-evoking and impressive performance for 30-120 people. The performance space has to have a level floor with movable chairs. The duration is about 45 min.

Kädetön neito – The Handless Maiden

The biggest production in Philomela’s history. The handless maiden tells the story of a girl, who’s life is haunted by a long-time contract with the devil. The devil wants its own, even with cut off hands! The work illustrates the fight between light and darkness, fleeing, finding, agony and joy. The journey takes the listener from an everyday greyness into the flimmer of a fairy tale and sombre horror.  The work is composed by Tellu Turkka and directed by Päivi Järvinen. The duration is 1h. Get to know the piece on its own website.

Enkelit – The Angels

A story of a woman who loses her child, based on Kalevala poetry and folk song. Through music and movement, the angels take the listener deep into sorrow and out of it. The work is composed by Tellu Virkkala (now Turkka) and directed by Päivi Järvinen. The work is performed in a space that can be completely blacked out and has a duration of ca. 20 min.

Minne kauneus katosi? – Where did beauty go?

A piece about aging and narrow-minded beauty ideal. Music and words by Tellu Turkka, directed by Päivi Järvinen. Duration ca. 15min.

Pick your own programme!

Philomela is a popular addition to festivities of organisations, companies and individuals. The programme can be put together according to wishes. We also perform in small groups.