A graduate of the Sibelius Academy, with further studies in Berlin and Zurich, she was a member of the Finnish National Opera before embarking on an international freelance career. She has appeared at leading opera houses across Europe and North America, including the Finnish National Opera, Norwegian National Opera, Danish Royal Opera, Teatro La Fenice in Venice and Opera Austin. Particularly celebrated for her Wagner and Verdi roles, her repertoire includes Kundry, Ortrud, Brangäne, Venus, Fricka, Amneris and Carmen. Alongside her operatic career, Knihtilä is a highly sought-after concert soloist, performing with leading European orchestras under distinguished conductors.