Finnish choir makes history with Sámi-language performance at London’s Westminster Abbey

A choir from Turku, Finland, will perform a song in the Sámi language at London’s Westminster Abbey during Easter services, marking the first time the Indigenous language will be heard in the historic church.

The Turku Cathedral Parish Oratorio Choir, known for its international performances, was invited to sing at the Abbey’s Evensong service—a traditional Anglican musical worship with strict selection criteria, reports Finnish broadcaster Yle. Their programme includes Dasgo nu lea Ipmil ráhkistan máilmmi (For God So Loved the World), a 2024 award-winning composition by Finnish composer Christoffer Pörn, with lyrics drawn from the Gospel of John.

Maria Aikio, a Sámi choir member, guided the group in mastering the North Sámi pronunciation. “I was deeply moved when I heard our small language would be heard in Westminster Abbey,” she said. “For many Sámi, this is a powerful moment—our language resonating in such a grand space.”

The choir’s conductor, Anu Åberg, highlighted the song’s significance in light of Finland’s Lutheran Church and the Sámi Truth and Reconciliation process. The piece premiered at a 2023 service for the Sámi Truth Commission, leaving a strong impression on the Sámi audience.

“It’s time to celebrate what unites us—music and traditions,” Åberg said. While the Sámi language posed initial challenges for non-native singers, Åberg noted its phonetic accessibility: “The choir has worked hard, and the pronunciation is coming along well.”

The choir will perform at Westminster Abbey on April 6 and 7.