This weekend, the renowned Royal Albert Hall will host an extraordinary performance featuring Katarina Barruk, a celebrated Ume Sámi singer, and the exceptional violinist Pekka Kuusisto. Together, they will take the audience on a captivating journey through the soulful tradition of joiking, the unique vocal art of the Sámi people, blending contemporary sounds with rich cultural heritage.
A Celebration of Sámi Culture
Katarina Barruk has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting the critically endangered Ume Sámi language. She passionately expresses how significant it is to hear her language resonating in one of the world’s most prestigious concert halls. “It’s amazing to have our voices heard in the Royal Albert Hall,” she says, emphasizing the importance of this performance not just for herself, but for the entire Ume Sámi community.
Joiking: More Than Just Music
The concert will showcase a blend of traditional joik — a style that features emotionally charged vocalizations — and other contemporary compositions curated by Kuusisto, creating an enchanting auditory experience. Barruk’s songs, sung in Ume Sámi, are imbued with themes of nature, personal stories, and a deep connection to her ancestry.
A Personal Connection
This performance holds a deeply personal significance for Barruk as her entire family is attending, including her brother, a reindeer herder who rarely has the opportunity to travel. This occasion represents a monumental step forward in bringing Sámi voices to the forefront of the cultural landscape.
Embracing Change through Tradition
As Barruk reflects on her artistic journey, she highlights how her musical expressions have transformed. “I’m now exploring how to use my voice not just as an instrument of tradition, but as a means of personal exploration,” she explains. Her collaboration with Kuusisto and the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra is not just a mix of old and new but a vibrant narrative that challenges perceptions and celebrates resilience.
A Call for Cultural Survival
For Barruk, this concert is a symbol of hope, representing a new chapter in the survival and appreciation of Sámi culture. The ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous peoples, particularly relating to environmental protections and cultural rights, fuel her mission to create and share music that speaks to both heritage and contemporary challenges.
Join the Journey
Don’t miss this incredible performance that will echo the rich heritage of Ume Sámi and inspire hope for the future. Join Katarina Barruk, Pekka Kuusisto, and the Norwegian Chamber Orchestra at the Proms on August 31, and be part of a moment that transcends music and culture.
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