Finland’s national soundscape recognised in London

Finland’s national soundscape Ääniä has received recognition in a prestigious place-branding competition in London. The work, composed by Lauri Porra, was honoured in the Best Use of Design category assessing strategic country branding initiatives. The soundscape is published on music streaming platforms on 5 December 2025, just ahead of Finland’s Independence Day.

Country branding through music

One year ago, Finland became the first country in the world to launch a national soundscape, unveiled on Finland’s Independence Day. Commissioned by the Finland Promotion Board and composed by Lauri Porra, the collection features 15 pieces inspired by Finnish nature and atmosphere.

By means of music, the soundscape communicates country brand themes important for Finland, including nature, serenity, authenticity, high quality and everyday happiness. It also seeks to strengthen cultural images associated with Finland by offering experiences that transcend language barriers and location.

Recognition in a global category

Held in London, the City Nation Place Awards annually celebrates the world’s best place-branding campaigns and initiatives. Finland’s national soundscape was shortlisted for the Best Use of Design category of outstanding strategic initiatives.

Ääniä received a Highly Commended distinction; The jury applauded Finland for its innovative approach to creating an emotional connection with the country through a national soundscape and for strengthening brand image by highlighting creativity and cultural depth alongside the country’s other well-known strengths.

Finnish space and serenity at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Ääniä has found an audience both in Finland and internationally. The soundscape’s website has attracted more than 50,000 unique visits from 90 countries, the largest numbers coming from Finland, the United Kingdom and the United States. The soundscape has also featured at events organised by Finnish missions worldwide, and in concerts in South America and Asia. Most recently, it was featured at the opening of Helene Schjerfbeck’s exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

“Finland’s soundscape has been widely used in our missions and events. Lauri Porra’s compositions inspired by Finnish landscapes and moods offer our guests the opportunity to experience Finland and its culture anywhere in the world,” says Ambassador for Culture and Creative Industries Paula Parviainen.

Beyond its use in missions and country branding, Ääniä is freely available to anyone seeking musical moments of calm.

Ääniä: Finland’s Official Soundscape is available on music streaming platforms and at finland.fi/soundscape.