Total Immersion: The World of Tove Jansson - Seasons in Moominvalley

We are guided through a landscape inspired by the distinct seasons of Moominvalley in this evocative selection of Finnish music. You will hear the evening begin with the rolling orchestral swells of Sibelius’s The Oceanides, which captures the impressionistic textures of the sea. This is followed by a new work from Outi Tarkiainen, a BBC co-commission that brings a contemporary voice to the programme. The centrepiece is Lauri Porra’s Seasons in Moominvalley, a piece that translates the visual and emotional world of Tove Jansson into sound. Listen for the way the orchestra shifts between the bright, expansive light of a Nordic summer and the quiet, introspective stillness of a long winter. The music is designed to be illustrative and atmospheric, moving through contrasting moods that reflect both the natural world and the quirky, poignant personalities inhabiting Jansson’s stories. It is an opportunity to hear how modern Finnish composers continue to draw inspiration from their national literary heritage and the surrounding environment.

Dalia Stasevska conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra, an ensemble rooted in the heart of London’s musical life. The orchestra is celebrated for its commitment to contemporary commissions and for championing a wide breadth of twentieth-century repertoire. Stasevska is known for her energetic leadership and her particular affinity for the music of her native Finland. Together, they have built a reputation for delivering technically precise and emotionally resonant performances. As a mainstay of the British broadcasting landscape, the ensemble frequently bridges the gap between traditional symphonic forms and modern storytelling through high-profile premieres and collaborative projects.

This orchestral concert takes place at the Barbican in London and has a total running time of approximately 120 minutes. Given the connection to the popular stories of Tove Jansson, the programme offers an accessible entry point for those who may be visiting the concert hall for the first time. The venue provides a modern setting for this two-hour event. There is no formal dress code required, so you should wear whatever makes you feel comfortable for a standard evening performance. Please note that specific interval timings have not been provided.