The female choir Merikosken Laulu, was established in 1947 and today it is home for more than 52 women. The choir and its singing groups perform and take actively part in different music events and festivals throughout Finland as well as abroad.

The choir’s conductor since 2001, Marita Pasanen, is a versatile professional musician – conductor, composer and a classic singing teacher. She is also the conductor of Central-Ostrobothnia Chamber choir (since 2002) and Jokilaaksojen Oratorio Choir (since 2007). In addition, she has been the President of the Finnish Female Choir Association and in the board of Sulasol (Finnish Amateur Musician’s Association) since 2006.

Marita Pasanen has conducted Merikosken Laulu with determination and professionalism without forgetting humour. She is a demanding, inspiring and bold conductor with an extraordinary gift for musical nuances and ambiance. Marita verbalises these in a way that enable singers to relate to the music on a deeper level.

Merikosken Laulu has released three recordings. The most recent ”Olennainen”, was recorded in 2008, a spiritual record where women of different ages come together with a passion, energy and love of singing. The previous recordings, ”Moninainen” was recorded in 2005 and ”Odotan Sinua” in 1991.

Merikosken Laulu aims to challenge the prejudice that female choirs often encounter. The choir covers a wide and varied repertoire with a passion for new challenges. The choir’s persistence has paid off and it was chosen as” the female choir of the year” for the second time in 2005. Also in 2005, the choir achieved golden diploma and Marita Pasanen a conductor prize in ”In..Canto sul Garda” competition in Italy.