Project Overview

In March 2024, Oulunsalo Ensemble presented Classics and Premieres at Oulu Cathedral and Rovaniemi Church, seamlessly blending timeless Baroque works with the world premieres of three contemporary compositions. Among these was Aava by Oulu-based composer Jarno Vanhanen, performed by renowned French violin virtuoso François Pineau-Benois. The piece, partially debuted at the concert, was later produced as a streaming release.

Aava (“open sea” or “glade”) evokes serene yet somber waves of emotion and landscape. In the first Larghetto movement, the soloist strives to pierce the shadows cast by the strings, reflecting the wintry essence of Jarno and François’ encounter in Oulu. The full concerto premiered later at the Hailuoto Music Festival 2024.