The second International Paulo Cello Competition awarded Perttu Kivilaakso third place in 1996, marking a significant early milestone for the eighteen-year-old musician. A native of Helsinki, he pursued formal training at the Sibelius Academy, establishing a technical foundation that bridged the gap between his rigorous classical background and his long-standing role within the Finnish ensemble Apocalyptica.
Early Development and Orchestral Career
Kivilaakso began playing the cello at the age of five. Following his success at the Paulo Cello Competition, he secured a lifetime chair within the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, where he performed alongside his father, Juhani Kivilaakso. Although he maintained this position for several years, he eventually transitioned into an indefinite leave of absence to accommodate his intensive touring schedule with Apocalyptica, officially resigning from the orchestra in 2007.
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Although he participated in the 1995 lineup, Kivilaakso prioritized his academic commitments during the band's initial professional emergence. He rejoined the group permanently at the end of 1999, replacing Antero Manninen. Since his return, he has contributed to various albums, starting with the group's third studio effort, Cult. Throughout his tenure, he has utilized a 19th-century German cello to define the band's signature sound.
Composition and Operatic Work
Beyond his performance duties, Kivilaakso has established a career as a composer. His portfolio includes original tracks for Apocalyptica such as Farewell, Conclusion, and Beautiful. He expanded his range into film and interactive media, contributing music to documentaries and the video game Max Payne 2: The Fall of Max Payne. In 2016, he collaborated with Eicca Toppinen to write the opera Indigo, which premiered at the Finnish National Opera. The production explores the influence of multinational corporations and the human pursuit of happiness.
Fast facts
- Born: 11 May 1978, Helsinki
- Primary Instrument: German 19th-century cello
- Education: Sibelius Academy
- Band Membership: Apocalyptica
- Opera Debut: Indigo, 2016
- Citizenship: Finland
Questions readers ask
When did Perttu Kivilaakso officially join Apocalyptica?
He rejoined the band at the end of 1999, taking over the position held by Antero Manninen.
Did he play in the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra?
Yes, he held a lifetime chair in the orchestra until he left the position in 2007 to focus on his work with Apocalyptica.
Achievements
- Instruments: cello
- Genres: progressive rock, opera and symphonic metal
