Iris Oja, Septentrion
Olivia Moss, Caelis
Joel Papinoja, piano
Helsinki Chamber Choir
Nils Schweckendiek, conductor
Valtteri Raekallio ja Thomas Freundlich, stage direction and video design
The Helsinki Chamber Choir, together with Valtteri Raekallio and Thomas Freundlich, presents for the first time Armas Launis’s final opera Frozen Flames (1957). Performed in concert form, the opera brings together choral and solo singing, piano accompaniment, dance, visual elements, Launis’s original ideas and the dramatic possibilities of the libretto, creating a powerful and immersive experience.
The story tells of Septentrio, the 12-year-old son of a Nordic Viking chieftain, who is taken captive by the Romans in Britain. He dreams of returning home, but, unable to adapt to the southern climate, falls ill and dies. Reflecting Launis’s own longing for his northern homeland, the opera combines a deeply personal narrative with his mature and richly varied musical language.
Armas Launis’ hitherto unperformed television opera Frozen Flames has lain dormant in the archives since its composition in 1957, two years before Launis’ death. The Helsinki Chamber Choir is proud finally to present the long-delayed world premiere of this major work by an underrated Finnish composer in collaboration with the Armas Launis Society, Raekallio Corp. and Organ Night and Aria Festival.
In collaboration with: Armas Launis -seura, Urkuyö ja aaria
Tickets: 15-35 € + ticket fee starting from 1,5 € (www.lippu.fi)
ARMAS LAUNIS Les flammes gelées - The Frozen Flames