Journey to the heart of music – be present and enjoy
The Turku Music Festival is the oldest and one of the most prestigious music festivals in Finland. For over 60 years, it has brought together internationally renowned classical music artists, inspiring performances, and unique musical experiences. The festival is a cornerstone of Finland’s classical music and art history, while its vision remains firmly focused on the future and continuous renewal. Deeply rooted in Turku’s cultural life, the festival is an integral part of the city’s rhythm and daily life.
In 2025, the Turku Music Festival revolves around the theme of “Presence.” This theme highlights the unifying power of music and reminds us of the importance of being truly present.
A new artistic vision
The festival’s creative director is internationally acclaimed composer, bassist, and musical visionary Lauri Porra. Known for his unique ability to blend classical music, film scores, and modern tones into a seamless whole, Porra will lead the 2025 festival with a fresh and surprising artistic perspective that brings together traditions and new expressions.
For Porra, the Presence theme means not only a connection between art and the audience but also a dialogue between performers and listeners. This theme permeates every concert, every note, and every encounter at the festival.
Presence is the luxury of our time
When planning for this year’s Turku Music Festival began, one thought emerged strongly: presence.
We live in a time where it is easy for each of us to lose ourselves in the digital flood of information and constant stimuli. At the same time, we deeply yearn for genuine connection with ourselves and with others. This theme of presence, which the Turku Music Festival embraces, offers an opportunity to pause, be in the moment, and enjoy the power of art.
The goal of the Turku Music Festival is to truly be present – for the people of Turku as well as for the audience visiting the city. We want to lower the threshold for experiencing music and create encounters that bring together people from all walks of life. The Turku Music Festival is not only aimed at classical music enthusiasts but at anyone who wishes to surrender to the unforgettable moments that art can provide. We do not see the right to presence or the enjoyment of art as a luxury but as an essential element of well-being – a vital part of every person’s life.
This year’s program offers a vast array of amazing experiences. At the opening concert, we will hear the renowned pianist Vikingur Ólafsson, whose name ranks among the greatest in contemporary classical music. Personally, I am particularly excited about the visit of Yamandu Costa, the Brazilian virtuoso of the seven-string guitar, as well as completely new program highlights, such as double bass yoga at Turku Castle or kantele meditation combined with traditional Japanese ceremonies.
One of this year’s highlights is the gala concert at Turku Cathedral, where classical music merges with stunning light art. I believe this concert will stand out as one of the festival’s most unforgettable moments for many. However, every concert this year offers something truly special, whether it is your first time attending or if you are a long-time friend of the music festival.
I am confident that the Turku Music Festival holds a position as an incredibly prestigious festival on the international stage. Among this year’s performers are some of the world’s absolute top artists as well as intriguing emerging names. What makes the Turku Music Festival truly special is Turku itself, its residents, and the unique venues, which provide opportunities to experience the pinnacle of classical music in intimate and immersive settings. And that is something truly extraordinary.
I warmly welcome everyone to the Turku Music Festival. Come and experience the power of the concert, take a moment to pause, be present, and enjoy how music can bring us closer to ourselves and to one another. I promise that every event will be an experience to remember.
With warm regards,
Lauri Porra
Artistic Director
Turku Music Festival
Unique experiences and intimate moments
The 2025 program will feature, alongside top-tier performers, emerging talents and artists who push musical boundaries. The festival promises unforgettable performances, where modern and classical artists join forces, and intimate moments where artists and audiences become one.
Opening concert: Víkingur Ólafsson
4.8.2025 19:00 Turku Concert Hall
Pianist Víkingur Ólafsson’s art combines technical sovereignty, original style and, above all, the ability to curate repertoire that breaks the mould of the traditional recital. This visionary Icelandic pianist doesn’t just play music – he builds ensembles that resonate with today’s listeners, but also take art music to new dimensions.
Basic ticket 59,00 € / Pensioner 54,00 € / Group 52,00 € / Reduced group 34,00 €
OPENING DISCOUNT -20 % OFF THE BASIC TICKET 47,20 € / TICKET
