© Mikko Mäntyniemi

World premiere of Iiro Rantala’s new song cycle

Iiro Rantala, composition and piano
Aarne Pelkonen, baritone
Mila Laine, cello
Jukka Nylund, director

In 2026, a century will have passed since the death of Eino Leino, often referred to as Finland’s national poet. One of the beloved lyricist’s most significant works is the poem Hymyilevä Apollo (The Smiling Apollo), published in 1898. To honor this centenary, composer-pianist Iiro Rantala and baritone Aarne Pelkonen released the first-ever complete recording of the poem in April 2026. Hymyilevä Apollo, with lyrics by Leino and music by Rantala, is now brought to the stage as a dramatized performance directed by Jukka Nylund.

Written by Leino when he was just 20 years old, Hymyilevä Apollo explores a vast spectrum of life and embodies an optimistic faith in humanity. Its themes—tolerance, reconciliation, love, and dreams—are timeless, still resonating deeply 128 years after its original publication. The performance by Pelkonen, Rantala, and cellist Mila Laine offers a window into the life of a young Eino Leino, while inviting the audience to pause and reflect on what truly matters in life.

CONCERT DURATION:
Approx. 60 minutes, no intermission.

TICKETS:
€15–35 + service charges (from €1.5 at www.lippu.fi)