Samuel Salmi: Paths of My Heart
Reflections by a Bishop Emeritus in Spoken Word & Music
Full Production of a CD/DVD Release & Video Trailer
Project Overview
In the autumn of 2017, as Bishop Samuel Salmi approached retirement, the Diocese of Oulu decided to create a celebratory publication to honor his life’s work. The publication would feature Salmi reflecting on the key moments of his life through poetic monologues, complemented by musical performances from his close musician friends Raimo Paaso (vocals) and Markus Vaara (piano). This idea ultimately developed into the audiovisual CD/DVD publication Sydämeni polkuja (Paths of My Heart).
Services Involved
Markus Vaara
Pianist, Répétiteur, Conductor
I first met Eero Karvonen at the reception after a piano recital. I was immediately impressed by his ability to discuss a wide range of topics with deep expertise. I wanted to get to know him and his way of thinking. That wish has come true: I have had the pleasure of working with Eero, especially in the field of music, for several years.
I have performed as a pianist, harpsichordist, organist, and conductor at the Hailuoto Music Festival, which he produces, as well as in concerts and tours of the Oulunsalo Ensemble orchestra. The organization and logistics of these events have been flawless; on a level usually reached only by large, publicly funded organizations made up of specialists from multiple fields.
Eero’s concert recordings have also been a great joy to me. His audio work makes everything sound natural, giving the listener the sensation of being in the same room with the live music. Even with large ensembles, his video editing precisely follows the drama of the music, revealing fine details.
In his work, Eero combines expertise and skill with a rare breadth. He is truly a one-man production company. I can warmly and without hesitation recommend him for any position or project.
Samuel Salmi
Bishop Emeritus
Diocese of Oulu, Finland
Eero Karvonen is an exemplary producer in his field. I have experienced him as an encouraging colleague, inspiring, and someone who brings out creativity.
I look back on our joint project with gratitude, during which we created the album Paths of My Heart, set against the nature of Lapland. I look forward to potential future collaborations with him.
My Role & Contributions
I was entrusted with the roles of artistic producer and director, shaping Salmi’s message into an intimate and impactful experience. By seamlessly integrating audio and video elements, I aimed to enhance the emotional resonance of the content for listeners and viewers alike.
As the project producer, I oversaw all technical aspects of the record production. I oversaw the recording session, which took place in Oulu Cathedral. I also designed and implemented the graphics for the project, including the album cover, booklet, and marketing materials.
While I photographed the bishop and the musicians on location for the album cover, Matti Vuorma provided extraordinary photographic contributions for the booklet and video to showcase the natural beauty of Lapland – a place close to Bishop Salmi’s heart.
Additionally, I created a promotional trailer for the project, published on YouTube.
The album was released exclusively as a limited-edition CD/DVD.
A premiere concert was also held in Oulu Cathedral to honor the bishop’s retirement and celebrate the publication.
