Background information

ISO ILO has a long history that dates back more than hundred years. In the beginning there were people that created a group in order to sing and perform on various festive occations. There were also some musicians that joined in the performing group.

Over the years the activity was moderate, especially on the 1930’s and during the years of war. But if there were something special or different types of jubilees or celebrations in the community or nearby regions the group was gathered together. Since 1962 the group has been in action regurlarly. The present name, ISO ILO, was taken into use in 1973.

What is characteristic to the group is that there are 5-15 songs which have choreography and acting along the singing. In these chains of songs there is always a theme that the choreography binds into a wholeness. The theme of the songs can be that of a composer, a poet, an artist or some idea e.g. the nature in Lapland or local history.

The music of the group has developed from the traditional type of folksinging in a mixed choir towards newer, multivocal modern tunes. ISO ILO has also had premiere performances which have been created and composed especially for it. These miniature operas are for example: Nuottaooppera ( Fishnet opera ) and Vala ( Oath ). These two have been performed anew with a fresh choreography.  

Activity

The group gets together once a week on Thursdays to practise the program. At first the group practises the different voices and then gradually gets the movements under the supervision of the choreograph from the main theatre. Later on the whole orchestra comes along as well to the Thursday practice. Before the opening night a weekend camp of intense rehersals is held to make sure that the voices and the movements are right. One year’s of drilling culminates at the opening night on the eve of the First of May. There are other performances too during the year as well as festival tours both in Finland and abroad in summer time.

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