Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival: A blend of world-class music in an intimate setting

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Stefan Bremer and Jonas Kukkonen

Set in the serene landscapes of east Finland, Kuhmo Chamber Music stands as a true gem for music lovers and cultural adventurers alike.

Kuhmo Chamber Music has grown to be one of the world’s most notable classical music festivals, gaining recognition and acclaim across the globe. The 55th edition’s theme is ‘Nordic Utopia’. The programme will explore several aspects of Nordic culture, lifestyle, climate and mindset, while acknowledging the region’s deep connections and interconnections with the rest of the world.

Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival: A blend of world-class music in an intimate setting

Music course students in Lake Lammasjärvi.

The event will run from 13 to 26 July, and around 100 international performers will take part, with a focus on Nordic musicians. Performances will include traditional chamber pieces, but there will also be some surprises and novel experiences.

With a population of 8,000, Kuhmo is easily accessible from Helsinki with the nearest airports being in Kajaani, Kuopio or Joensuu. The town is surrounded by shimmering lakes and lush forests. Between performances, visitors can enjoy the nearby national parks, or venture into pristine wilderness under the expert guidance of Wild Taiga, mainly family-run businesses that showcase the region’s local traditions, culture, knowledge and products.

Lentua Hall of the Kuhmo Arts Centre.

“There will be concerts from morning until late at night. In the evenings, musicians and festival-goers gather around an open fire in the yard of the festival restaurant,” says Sari Rusanen, festival director. “It’s an intimate setting, allowing the audience to feel the power of music and savour the experience.”

Kuhmo Chamber Music’s concerts are held in three wonderful wooden venues, all within walking distance from each other. “Our highlights in 2025 include Norway’s Vertavo Quartet, Denmark’s Theatre of Voices, and Swedish cellists Thorleif Thedéen and Jakob Koranyi, alongside Finnish festival favourites such as pianist Paavali Jumppanen, violinist Tami Pohjola, and Meta4 string quartet,” says Rusanen.

Kuhmos artists. Photo: Jonas Kukkonen

There will also be performances by exciting newcomers, including Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, Miritza Lundberg’s Romani ensemble and Australia’s Affinity Quartet, winners of the Melbourne String Quartet Competition. Some concerts are also aimed at children and there will be meet and greets with musicians, art exhibitions and workshops, as well as unexpected musical moments in the surrounding nature.

Whether a devoted chamber music enthusiast or seeking a one-of-a-kind cultural experience, Kuhmo Chamber Music delivers a scrumptious blend of exquisite performances and natural beauty. In summer, the days are long, with daylight stretching well into the night, making Kuhmo a magical setting for both music and adventure.