A Complete Brand Redesign

Tapiola Sinfonietta—the Espoo City Orchestra—is known for its stylistically precise interpretations of Viennese classical music, but also for its open-minded, boundary-pushing productions. The Sinfonietta is characterized by its blending of styles and guest appearances by leading artists. Classical music is performed in the traditional manner, but also with a bold, distinctive approach.

A rhythm section like this also demands an open-minded approach to expression and creativity from its brand partners.

As is often the case with public organizations, the Tapiola Sinfonietta’s brand and visual identity had become somewhat stagnant. The orchestra’s operations, on the other hand, had not been stagnant for a long time, and there was a need to revamp the entire brand and website along the way.

Following a competitive bidding process, G-Works was given the opportunity to take on the challenge.

The orchestra’s leadership took the project very seriously and with a high level of commitment. The entire G-Works staff was required to attend three concert performances before being allowed to suggest any changes to the visual design. During the pre-concert events, we also had the opportunity to meet the musicians and staff and learn about the orchestra’s history.

This approach paid off and left a lasting impact on our way of working. Since the Tapiola Sinfonietta project, we haven’t taken on a single project without first experiencing and understanding it ourselves.

We quickly realized together that a fresh and striking direction was the right one. The new black-and-yellow look emerged from artist interviews and lively brainstorming sessions. We wanted to find—and we did find—something visually appealing that would stand out from the crowd.

The figures in the photos are actual musicians from the orchestra, each with their own instrument, posing in a way that feels natural to them.

The Tapiola Sinfonietta’s black-and-yellow branding and imagery are still frequently seen on the streets and in concert promotions even today.

G-Works staff still occasionally attend Tapiola Sinfonietta concerts. This love has endured.