VIENNA (AP) — At the Eurovision Song Contest, participants have a mere three minutes to make a profound impact. The challenge intensifies in the quick-paced environment of Saturday’s grand final in Vienna, where 25 acts strive to capture the attention of the audience through both musical and visual spectacle.
Among the frontrunners to win this year’s competition are the Finnish duo consisting of pop singer Pete Parkkonen and classical violinist Linda Lampenius. Their performance for the song “Liekinheitin,” which translates to “Flamethrower,” has garnered significant attention from fans and betting markets alike due to its unique blend of pop and classical styles, as well as its stunning stage presentation.
The duo describes their sound as “new pop with a classical touch.” The song, depicting a narrative of passionate love, is filled with explosive energy, where Parkkonen’s intense vocals harmonize with Lampenius’ dynamic violin play. An important aspect of their performance is the requirement from Eurovision rules that lead vocals must be performed live, while instrumental segments are typically pre-recorded to streamline transitions between performances.
To comply with these regulations, the Finnish delegation made a special request for Lampenius to perform her violin live. They felt that the duet structure of “Flamethrower,” which relies on complementary vocal and instrumental layers, necessitated both performers to deliver their parts in real-time. Lampenius stated, “It’s a woman and a man, it’s a female voice and a male voice. So I do all my lyrics through my violin, by playing, and you are singing it with words. But we are talking. We are equally as important, both of us.”
Initially uncertain about whether their request would be sanctioned, the duo received final approval from Eurovision organizers following a live rehearsal in front of an audience. The European Broadcasting Union clarified that such exceptions for live audio capture of instruments could be allowed when artistically justified.
Lampenius arrived with two violins: her prized Gagliano violin, crafted in 1781 for optimal sound quality, and a less valuable instrument to use if the request for live performance was denied. This precaution was taken to safeguard her treasured Gagliano during the potentially hazardous staging that accompanies their performance.
Parkkonen and Lampenius have been meticulously preparing for this moment since November, following their victory in Finland’s national selection contest for Eurovision in February. They estimate having performed "Liekinheitin" hundreds of times to perfect their delivery. Given the intensity of their routine, precision becomes imperative, especially as the performance escalates to a climax with flames erupting from the stage while Lampenius plays her violin, assisted by a leaf blower and wearing a dramatic flowing dress.
Acknowledging the risky nature of their act, Lampenius expressed that it is “a bit scary when you think of it.” However, she reassured herself with the presence of stagehands — whom they refer to as “ninjas” — whose role is to ensure her dress stays clear of the flames, an essential aspect of their production that remains unseen by viewers at home. She elaborated, “They’re running with me — first one guy carrying my dress when I’m running, then the other one catching me during my run. And he helps me also when I jump up on the stage and do the pirouette.”
For the dramatic final pose, where Lampenius balances on chairs in high heels with her violin raised high, Parkkonen takes on the dual role of singer and spotter, ready to catch her should she lose balance. “That’s my work,” he noted humorously.
The preparation and effort that the duo has poured into their performance reflect the high stakes and artistic ambitions inherent in the Eurovision Song Contest. With an unforgettable blend of auditory and visual elements, “Liekinheitin” aims to leave a lasting impression on both the audience and the competition.
