Protest erupts in Kouvola over remarks by local politician regarding Kymi Sinfonietta

In Kouvola, a local politician’s remarks sparked a protest supporting the Kymi Sinfonietta on Thursday evening. The protest was initiated by Jouko Leppänen, the chair of the Kouvola City Council, who criticized the orchestra’s quality and repertoire in the Kouvolan Sanomat newspaper. Jari Kujala, the president of the Kymi Sinfonietta Friends Association, expressed disappointment over Leppänen’s comments, stating that it was disheartening for a leading figure to disparage the entire system.

The demonstration, held at the Kuusankoskitalo, was organized by the Kymi Sinfonietta Friends Association, the North Kymen Music Institute, and the Kouvola Music Class Support Association. Attendees included students, teachers from the music institute, and other supporters of the orchestra.

Tensions surrounding the orchestra escalated after Kouvolan Sanomat reported on Kymi Sinfonietta’s uncertain financial situation in September, indicating potential cuts in government funding and discussions in Kouvola about possibly dissolving the orchestra. The city co-owns the orchestra with Kotka.

In the comments section of Kouvolan Sanomat, Leppänen shared his background, noting his extensive experience attending symphony orchestra concerts and operas since the 1980s. He stated he has no interest in Kymi Sinfonietta’s performances, admitting he has only attended one or two concerts over the past two decades.

Jari Kujala expressed particular concern over Leppänen’s criticism of the musicians, emphasizing the significant progress the orchestra has made and calling Leppänen’s comments destructive rather than constructive. Leppänen acknowledged to Yle that his views on the orchestra’s performance need updating and suggested he might attend a concert to gain a fresh perspective.