Monday night featured the premiere of Axel Fuhrmann’s documentary, “Sibelius’ Finlandia—Hymn of Freedom,” held at Felleshus. The event, organized in collaboration with NDR.de and ARTE, focused on the life and work of Finnish composer Jean Sibelius through his composition “Finlandia.”

Fuhrmann’s documentary combines historical archives, interviews from both domestic and international sources and high-quality film footage. The film also features performances by young musicians from the University of Helsinki’s Student Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, the documentary includes insights from Finland’s new President, Alexander Stubb, offering a contemporary perspective.

“Finlandia” is significant in Finland’s history, closely linked to the nation’s struggle for independence and Sibelius’ personal story. The composition remains relevant today, drawing parallels with Ukraine’s current efforts to preserve sovereignty amid the Russian invasion.

Following the screening, a lively discussion took place featuring Axel Fuhrmann, composer Detlev Glanert and Dan Ekholm, the Embassy’s Counsellor for Press and Culture. The panel delved into the film’s creation, its historical context and the impact of “Finlandia” on Finnish identity.

Enhancing the evening’s cultural experience, Finnish baritone Arttu Kataja from the Berlin State Opera, accompanied by pianist Jarkko Riihimäki, performed Sibelius’ music, contributing to the event’s focus on the composer’s legacy.

For those who missed the premiere, the documentary will be aired on ARTE on Sunday, June 23, and will also be available in their media library. Commissioned by NDR for ARTE, the film provides an in-depth look into the historical and cultural significance of Sibelius’ “Finlandia.”

Additional Insights

Jean Sibelius, widely regarded as one of Finland’s most notable composers, composed “Finlandia” in 1899, during a period when Finland was under Russian rule. The piece emerged as a symbol of Finnish resistance and national pride, frequently performed in secret to avoid censorship. More than a century later, “Finlandia” remains a representation of the struggle for freedom and independence, continuing to inspire new generations beyond its original context.

In the broader context of classical music and national identity, works like “Finlandia” illustrate how art can reflect and influence societal values and struggles. The release of the documentary is timely, as it revisits historical conflicts while also reflecting current global issues, serving as a reminder of the enduring impact of music and cultural heritage.

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