Lauri Kotila

2nd violin principal

Lauri Kotila studied violin and music pedagogy at Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, graduating in 2012. His studies included not only modern violin but also baroque violin and orchestral conducting courses, which he has continued to pursue through additional training. After graduation, Lauri worked as a music pedagogue at Vuosaari Music School for three years.

From 2016 to 2019, Lauri played in the first violin section of the Mikkeli City Orchestra as a substitute. In autumn 2019, he began working as the principal second violinist—initially as a substitute, and later as a permanent member following a successful audition.

Lauri announced at the age of five that he wanted to play the violin because it looked like so much fun. He began lessons at six, and after just a couple of years, he was certain he wanted to become a professional musician.

His determination turned goals into reality. In addition to modern violin, his studies included a year-long specialization course in baroque violin and orchestral conducting. Lauri also served as conductor of the Lauttasaari Orchestra from 2011 to 2012, where he led works such as Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 and Camille Saint-Saëns’ Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso.