Introduction

YL Male Voice Choir

YL Male Voice Choir (Ylioppilaskunnan Laulajat) is a Finnish pioneer of male voice choral music, performing actively in Finland and around the world. In addition to its a cappella repertoire, the choir performs and records with the most prominent orchestras and conductors of the world. Several of YL’s recordings have received international prizes. In Finland, YL’s Christmas Concerts and Spring Concerts have become important events for both choir and audience.

Founded in 1883 within the Helsinki University, the YL is Finland’s oldest Finnish language choir. The choir still continues its independent and versatile work. YL’s cultural merits, long history of concerts, several tours abroad and numerous critically acclaimed recordings have established the choir as one of the most prominent male choirs in the world. Since its birth, YL has recognised its responsibility in commissioning, performing and recording Finnish and foreign choral music. Most of Jean Sibelius ’ most famous works for male choir were commissioned and premiered by YL. Today the choir is known as Sibelius’ natural standard-bearer and a pioneer of contemporary music. Einojuhani Rautavaara is one of the contemporary composers who have dedicated many works for YL.

The YL is conducted by Pasi Hyökki .