The repertoire for the VII International Paulo Cello Competition is very challenging and demands masterly skills of all who take part. Applications were submitted by 108 cellists from 23 countries, and the 26 selected are all of an extremely high standard.
The attraction of the Paulo Competition, one of the world’s leading cello events, springs from Finland’s first-class competition prerequisites: a Jury of international soloists and teachers, brilliant pianists and conductors, orchestral partners and excellent halls. The Paulo Competition is exceptional in that the finalists get to perform three concertos with top Finnish orchestras; this is one reason for its appeal. Our warmest thanks for these go to the cities of Lahti, Espoo and Helsinki and their orchestras.
The Finnish Broadcasting Company (Yle) is another major partner, streaming the competition on the internet, radio, and Teema TV channel. This live coverage means that the international competition can be followed in all parts of the world, and the recordings on the Areena platform are an important document of our cultural history.
This year, a public masterclass taught by all the foreign members of the Jury will be held in the Camerata Hall of the Helsinki Music Centre concurrent with the competition on October 7–8. The classes are a unique opportunity to watch some of the world’s finest teachers at work with students from the Sibelius Academy and a few young cellists from other Nordic countries.
We extend a hearty welcome to come along and support the competitors, and to spend a few early October days listening to cellists and their music.
Arto Noras
Artistic Director and Chairperson of the Jury