Erkki Melartin from Käkisalmi to the world
Erik ”Erkki” Gustaf Oskarsson Melartin was born in Kexholm on 7th February 1875. He was often ill as a child, but nevertheless attended the lower primary school in Kexholm, after which he moved to a school in Savonlinna following his family's relocation. She lived in Savonlinna only during the term time and graduated from high school in 1892.
After graduating from secondary school, he began his studies at the Imperial Alexander University (now the University of Helsinki), where he studied art history and philosophy, among other subjects. At the same time as university, she studied At the Helsinki Music Institute (now the Sibelius Academy). His main teacher was the founder of the institute, Martin Wegelius, who taught him composition and music theory. Melartin also studied piano playing.
After graduating from Helsinki, Melartin continued his studies abroad. He studied at the Vienna Conservatory composition and music theory under the direction of Robert Fuchs, in addition to which he also made study trips to other parts of Europe.
Listen to Tuire Ranta-Meyer's podcast about Erkki Melartin's early years in the school world.
