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Backstage: Jukka-Pekka Saraste

Jukka-Pekka Saraste is one of the outstanding conductors of his generation. The exceptionally versatile Finnish artist has a passion for the sound and style of late Romanticism. He has been Principal Conductor and Artistic Director of the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra since 2023. He believes that experiencing music as part of a community counts among the most valuable things an orchestra can offer its audience.

Portrait of the conductor Jukka-Pekka Saraste. He is wearing a dark red suit and leaning against a stone wall.
Copyright: Felix Broede

Do you have a lucky charm? If so, what is it?

No, I just make sure I have the right scores with me.

 

Do you rather tend to be nervous or more of a show-off on stage?

Before I go on stage, I prefer to be on my own; afterwards, it’s the opposite.

 

Major or minor?

I like music that moves from minor to major.

 

If you were feeling peckish, what would you choose from the snack machine backstage in the Isarphilharmonie?

I’d go for a salami sandwich and an espresso.

 

What’s the first thing you do when you leave the stage after the final applause?

Have a beer!

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