11.10.2023

Welcome words, 46th Nordic Orchestra Conference

Distinguished participants and Nordic orchestra professionals.

I have the great pleasure to welcome you to the 46th Nordic Orchestra Conference in Helsinki.

Nordic cooperation goes back a long way, both in cultural life in general and for orchestras. Exchanging information, networking, and sharing experiences and good practices play an important role, now even more than before. Such cooperation feels natural among Nordic colleagues.

After all, we share many ways of thinking and doing. Now, supported by this tradition, we are turning our shared focus to how our world is changing.

Art promotes wellbeing, culture and democracy. Art education and training also advance these goals and values. Culture is one of the forces that hold our society together. And the importance of art and culture does not diminish in crises or in economically scarce times, quite on the contrary. In these times of geopolitical uncertainty, culture has an even bigger role to play in securing our resilience to crisis.

Orchestras have a major part to play in this change. In addition to concerts, orchestras have many roles in and outside the halls. At their best, orchestras support our societies, strengthening our communities’ wellbeing, creativity and sustainability. A diverse arts and cultural scene which people hold in high regard is the hallmark of a civilised nation.

Just look at the ways music has made a difference in Finland’s history and efforts to gain independence. Culture is the foundation of education, prosperity and democracy. For this reason, we must invest in art as a profession, including in orchestras.

In Finland’s new Government Programme, examining our cultural policy and drawing up a report based on that is a key objective. I will take part in this work with enthusiasm and commitment. For the Government, the report will involve implementing an intersectoral growth strategy for the creative industries. We are committed to strengthening the role of the cultural sector in country branding, and creating models that boost growth for the fields of arts and culture, music included.

Finland, your host this year, is looking into Shaping out Tomorrow, with a special focus on education and both individual wellbeing and wellbeing at work. The conference will also discuss climate action. Those involved in the Finnish live music scene have created their own climate roadmap, with a broad commitment to its objectives.

The Nordic Green Orchestra Guide, which will be published today, expands this work to the Nordic level.

Now, let me wish you exciting, creative and happy moments of cooperation. With these words, let me declare the 46th Nordic Orchestra Conference open.

(Photo: Valtioneuvoston kanslia, Lauri Heikkinen)