We are grateful and honoured to have been able to plan and complete the Saariaho70 festivities during Kaija’s lifetime. Last autumn’s celebrations feel all the more touching now, as Kaija took part in many events held in honour of her 70th birthday, curating the programmes for these concerts and always platforming younger composers and performers alongside her most important colleagues. She met each and every one of us in person, bringing happiness, warmth and light to us and to all her listeners, though she was already gravely ill.
We miss Kaija deeply. Her example as an artist and composer, her music and humanity will remain with us every day, now and forever.
Our deepest condolences to Kaija’s family, her friends and colleagues.
On behalf of everyone involved in the Saariaho70 celebrations:
Milla Palovaara, director, Cultural Agency Palovaara & Ruusila Company
Kaisa Näreranta, director, Teatro Productions
Paulina Ahokas, managing director, Tampere Hall