Connecting with musicians and audiences abroad and engaging in cultural diplomacy.
Violinist Max Tan has performed in the United States, Europe, and Asia. He is dedicated to fostering a sense of community amongst artists and listeners.
Photo: Heikki Tuuli, 2017
To learn more about Versoi Ensemble, please visit www.versoiensemble.com
Versoi Ensemble: A Sprout of Friendship
The name “Versoi” is a Finnish word meaning “to sprout”.
“The joint ensemble [...] was excellent even through the many challenges of the contemporary fare, as only to be expected from such lofty auspices.”
— The New York Times
In 2017, students from The Juilliard School (New York City) and Sibelius Academy (Helsinki) toured in a joint symphony orchestra to celebrate the centenary of Finnish independence. The ensemble, led by conductor and composer Esa-Pekka Salonen, performed in Helsinki, Stockholm and New York to critical acclaim.
This tour planted the beginnings of friendship between the American and Finnish musicians, and inspired a project rooted in cultural diplomacy through chamber music.