The 'Insect Symphony' has been recognized in Finland as a prime example of post-modern compositional aesthetics, though Aho also considers it a critique of post-modernism.
Composition History
Aho's Seventh Symphony, subtitled 'Insect Symphony', is based on his satirical opera 'Hyönteiselämää' (Insect Life), which itself was inspired by a play by Josef and Karel Capek.
Recording & Production
All of the Lahti Symphony Orchestra's recordings are made in the Church of the Cross, designed by Alvar Aalto, which also hosts their weekly concerts.
Compositional Technique
Aho used the fugue form in his Second Symphony to make the music's structure clear and logical for listeners, even compensating for the absence of tonality.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Aho's Second Symphony was a reaction against 1960s modern music trends, which he felt had led to a breakdown of tonality and fragmented forms, creating a gap between the public and modern music.
Performer Biography
The Lahti Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Osmo Vänskä, has won multiple international awards, including the Gramophone Award and the Cannes Classical Award, for their recordings of Sibelius's works.
Composer Biography
Kalevi Aho, one of Finland's leading contemporary composers, was born in Forssa in southern Finland in 1949.
You might also enjoy...
Aho, K.: Symphony No. 12, "Luosto"
Sallinen, A.: Symphonies Nos. 3 and 5
Aho, K.: Symphonies Nos. 5 and 7
Ahmas: Symphony No. 1
Nordgren, P.H.: Symphonies Nos. 3 and 5
Kokkonen: Symphonies Nos. 1-4 / Requiem
Rautavaara, E: Symphonies Nos. 1-8
Hameenniemi, E.: Violin Concerto / Symphonies Nos. 1 and 2
