Several Finnish and foreign composers have written music for the Tapiola Choir, including Bergman, Busto, Kortekangas, Kostiainen, Lindberg, Linkola, Mamiya, Pohjola, Rautavaara, Saariaho, Sallinen, Sarmanto and Schafer.

This approach has generated a new genre of repertoire of extremely high quality, completely devoid of the mannerisms of ‘music for children’. Collaboration with composers has extended not only to premiering new works but also active participation by the Choir in the composition process itself.

“I have been watching the Tapiola Choir for years, but I am repeatedly surprised by how fresh and energetic their performances are. The independence and active participation of the children is quite unlike anything I have seen in any other choir.Although singing is the main thing with a choir, this ensemble is hugely impressive in their comprehensive, relaxed and skilful approach to music-making.

I feel that the Tapiola Choir captures the best of Finland’s musical culture: heartfelt expression, uncontrived professional skill and a love for music in all its various forms.This makes the choir an internationally unique phenomenon whose example cannot help but influence the development of children’s choirs all around the world.”

- composer Kaija Saariaho