Oskar Merikanto (1868-1924) was a major cultural figure in Finland in the early 20th century. Not only was he a composer, but also a talented pianist, a critic, an organist, a conductor and one of the founders of the Finnish National Opera. Merikanto is especially known for his songs which have become beloved classics and are still widely performed today. Year 2018 marks the 150th anniversary of Merikanto's birth.

Finnish cellist Jussi Makkonen and pianist Nazig Azezian, both of whom completed their master’s degree at the Sibelius Academy, began their cooperation in 2013. Makkonen and Azezian are specialized in Finnish and especially in Jean Sibelius’ music. Over the past few years they have reached hundreds of thousands of listeners with their concerts, records and music videos. The artists have had several successful concert tours in the most distinguished concert halls in the United States, most European countries, Malaysia, Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia and Hong Kong. They have also performed in hundreds of schools in Finland and in many European countries introducing classical music to young audiences. Since 2010, the narrative school concerts have already been attended by over 500 000 children. Makkonen and Azezian have also received numerous music awards, and in August 2017 their Sibelius-themed Melody Forest record was the first Finnish chamber music record to sell platinum.
Makkonen and Azezian are continuing their applauded concert tours in the United States in 2018-2021 performing also music composed for them by prominent Finnish composers.

www.sibeliusinspiration.com
www.youtube.com/cellistjussimakkonen

The music video, as well as Makkonen and Azezian's previous music videos, has been filmed by Aira Vehaskari, whose roots are in Helsinki and New Orleans. She left her successful career as a reporter behind her to start her own company Blooming Rock, focusing on making films and documentaries. With Makkonen and Azezian, Vehaskari created Sibelius Inspiration concert that combines videos, music, sound, light and fashion design.

www.bloomingrock.net

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