Göteborgs Konserthus Sámi folk pop with Mirja Palo

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Singer and musician Mirja Palo has Finnish roots, but sings in Northern Sámi. With a kantele, percussion, flute and guitar, she combines folk music with influences from pop and sound art.The result is a story of humankind’s inner strength. Take this opportunity to hear sounds of the Sámi tradition on Sámi National Day, 6 February.

Mirja Palo grew up in Arvidsjaur and lives in Jokkmokk. Her singing and music are created by combining her Finnish roots with the folk instrument called a kantele and a Sámi cultural landscape. Her latest album revolves around themes of pregnancy and birth.

Many of Mirja Palo’s songs are performed in northern sámi, a language she taught herself, though she does not have a Sámi background. The language, in combination with the Finnish kantele, is essential to her innovative folk music with influences from pop and classical music.

Her trio includes percussionist and flute player Jonas Sjöblom who has worked with artists such as Wille Crafoord, Simon Marainen and dancer Virpi Pahkinen. Mirja Palo is also joined by Gustav Afsahi on guitar.

The album Riegádahttin depicts women’s vulnerability and pain, and above all, the unbelievable power that is set loose when a child comes into the world. Or, as Songlines critic Fiona Talkington put it: “Mirja Palo articulates her poetry so clearly that no translation is necessary.”

Get in the groove before the concert

DJ Said spins records in the foyer before the concert, and the bar is open. Bring your friends!