sports

Violin as a Point of Contention

What can Finland do at the upcoming 70th Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, and it seems other countries cannot? The answer could be – live instrument playing.

Violin as a Point of Contention

TL;DR

  • Finland's entry for Eurovision in Vienna has received an exception to play the violin live.
  • This breaks the rule implemented in 1999 that prohibits live instruments, requiring all music to be pre-recorded.
  • The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) stated the exception was made due to 'artistic justification' after reviewing the Finnish delegation's request.
  • The Swiss representative was denied permission to play a live electric guitar, citing the rule against instruments connected by cable.
  • This decision has created controversy, with some viewing it as a positive step towards live music and others as preferential treatment that could benefit Finland's betting odds.