The Chorus of the Finnish National Opera celebrates its 80th anniversary
When the chorus begins to sing, the power of the music is palpable. A chorus is more than just a collection of individual voices; it’s a community where members support one another and work towards a shared goal. In 2025, the Chorus of the Finnish National Opera marks its 80th anniversary.
PRESENTING THE CHORUS OF THE FINNISH NATIONAL OPERA
Each singer brings their own unique skills and personality to a performance, and together they create the sound that resonates across the Opera House auditorium. The chorus often plays the role of the storyteller. It conveys the most intense moments of the drama, whether it evokes joy, sorrow, love, or anger.
A chorus has been an integral part of the Finnish National Opera’s productions for over a century. In its early days, the chorus was composed of amateur singers, but it evolved professionally over time. The Choral Singers’ Association of the Finnish Opera was established in spring 1945 with 33 singers.
Today, the Finnish National Opera employs 53 tenured opera singers. Depending on the season and repertoire, they perform either as soloists or in a mixture of soloist and choir roles. Most of the singers form the Chorus of the Finnish National Opera, Finland’s only full-time professional chorus.
The composition of the chorus varies by production. For operas requiring a larger chorus, additional singers from the FNO’s extra chorus join the ensemble. The Opera House also has a children’s choir of approximately 50 singers. The chorus masters of the Finnish National Opera are Marge Mehilane and Tatu Erkkilä.
Watch the video for marvellous moments with the Chorus
Recordings: Finnish Broadcasting Company Yle and Finnish National Opera
CHORUS – A PILLAR OF THE Opera
EXPERIENCE THE CHORUS IN the season 2025-2026
BROWSE PHOTOS OF THE CHORUS
