Deep Resonance
Bass Martin Iivarinen has studied with, among others, Timo Riihonen and Jaakko Ryhänen. In summer 2026, Iivarinen will appear at the Savonlinna Opera Festival in the role of gardener Antonio in Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro.
Martin Iivarinen is the 2026 scholarship recipient of the Martti Talvela Foundation. The scholarship will be awarded to him in connection with this concert.
The foundation’s justification for selecting the recipient is as follows:
Martin Iivarinen has emerged among young singers as a significant promise in the continuation of Finland’s distinguished bass tradition. Possessing a richly resonant bass voice and an authentic bass presence, the Iisalmi-born singer has already demonstrated his ability as an interpreter of both serious and comic roles. He has also received recognition as the recipient of the Eero Rantala Fund Prize at the Timo Mustakallio Singing Competition in summer 2025. In autumn 2026, he is expected to join the international opera studio of the Berlin State Opera. The Martti Talvela Foundation wishes to support this young and gifted artist at the beginning of his international career as a bass singer.
The concert pianist, Marjaana Merikanto, is an active performer whose passion lies in working broadly as a soloist, chamber musician, teacher, and Lied accompanist.
The concert program features traditional bass repertoire with well-known songs and arias by composers such as Oskar Merikanto, Modest Mussorgsky, and Joonas Kokkonen.
The concert venue is the Ylinen hall of the TeaHouse of Wehmais. You may enjoy the summer atmosphere in the tea house garden or in the restaurant hall before or after the concert, until 9:00 PM, with tea cocktails and other refreshments. The restaurant holds full licensing rights.
During the intermission, the TeaHouse team will create a special Music Days menu (€20 per person). The selection features carefully chosen local ingredients and summer delicacies designed to be enjoyed with tea. Savory and sweet scones are paired with flavorful fillings, complemented by a curated selection of fine teas. The menu is served at tables. Advance reservations are recommended by calling +358 40 410 1626 or emailing teahouse@pihlasresort.fi. Dietary requirements can be accommodated when notified in advance.
The concert is organized in cooperation with the Martti Talvela Foundation, whose primary purpose is to promote Finnish musical culture. Its partners include Suur-Savon Osuuspankki and Juva Culture Association.
Our online ticket shop is powered by Johku (Aptual Commerce Oy). Please remember to make use of your employer-provided cultural benefit. If you are paying with Epassi or Smartum, please select ONE standard ticket. Discounted member tickets are available to members of the Joroinen Music Association.
