TULKINNANVARAISTA is a forum for presenting, studying and sharing new and experimental music, established in 2010 by Uteliaat muusikot association and directed by instrumentalist, composer and scholar Juho Laitinen.

We promote significant musical expressions outside the mainstream and facilitate an open and equal dialogue of aesthetic, philosophical and societal dimensions of making and sharing art between composers, performers, listeners and other participants. Music is understood as an intermedia practise with close ties to theatrical, visual, choreographic and literary expressions.

The work is undertaken by three interconnected groups: UMUU is a collective of professional musicians, whereas all enthusiasts – regardless of prior experience and skill – are welcome to take part in activities of Naarmu ensemble. Visiting international and multidisciplinary artists are also invited to share their work.

We strive to consistently incorporate our ethical principles into our work. Our core values are compassion, respect and equality. We act in the here-and-now, aware of ecological, social and political implications of our work. We promote critical thinking and and a dialogue that is open to all.

Between 2020 and 2024 we conducted a complete study and performance of Cornelius Cardew’s music theatre work The Great Learning.

Over the years we’ve been supported by Kone Foundation, Finnish Cultural Foundation, Arts Council of Finland, Finnish Music Foundation, Wihuri Foundation, Madetoja Foundation, Uniarts Helsinki, City of Helsinki, Earle Brown Music Foundation, EU Erasmus program, Helsinki Music Centre Foundation and The Society of Finnish Composers as well as Genelec and Tivoli Audio. In 2020 Madetoja foundation awarded us a prize for “enriching the Finnish musical life with bold and innovative concert activities”.

Thus far the following has happened:

502 concerts, workshops, lectures or other events

1 759 performers

some 17 127 listeners in situ

209 257 viewers on our YouTube channel

some 2 000 000 listeners and viewers on radio and tv

749 presented works

595 350€ in grants received

376 036€ in paid salaries