The church of Kaarlela is around 500 years old. Throughout the centuries, both Catholic liturgical music, melodies stemming from the Reformation and revival movements, as well as diverse contemporary music, have resonated within the church. Ulla Lampela, cellist of the OCO, has put together a program where listeners can embark on a journey through history. The concert, held in the Kaarlela church on February 2nd, features Jukka Perko, one of the most respected and beloved saxophonists of our time. Perko is known for his numerous successful bands and broad repertoire; he frequently performs as a soloist with big bands and symphony orchestras.

The concert's time travel begins in the Middle Ages, with Ulla Lampela performing three Gregorian melodies. From Catholic masses, we move on to a premiere, Jussi Lampela's (b. 1972) meditative "Three fantasies on Gregorian Chants." The piece combines elements from Gregorian liturgical chant, sung sections for the cellist, and an improvised section for the saxophone.

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) has been called the father of Lutheran church music: Ulla Lampela performs Cello Suite No. 1, one of the cornerstones of Baroque music and one of the most beloved works in cello literature. Jukka Perko also contributes to this work, presenting saxophone improvisations between the movements.

About 20 years ago, Jukka Perko released an album of hymns ("Kaanaanmaa") that deeply touched the Finnish people, and the album even sold gold. Tonight, the audience will also experience beloved and familiar hymns, this time arranged for saxophone and string quartet. In addition to Lampela, the quartet includes Ida Tunkkari (violin), Saana Parviainen (violin), and Inkeri Halmio-Hanhikoski (viola).

Chamber music series 'Genius Loci':
Moments from Centuries of Kaarlela Church
Fri 2.2.2024 at 7 pm, Church of Kaarlela
Tickets: www.netticket.fi