The score incorporates unusual instruments like carnival whistles and kazoos, played by all ensemble members, and one of the sopranos also plays the cello while singing.
Compositional Technique
The vocal roles in this opera were specifically tailored for the soloists on this recording, showcasing a wide range of vocal styles from Ligeti to Puccini, including Sprechgesang and a three-octave range.
Historical Context
The opera explores the lives of two prominent Finnish politicians, Ahti Karjalainen (1923-1990) and President Urho Kekkonen (1900-1986), focusing on their political careers, struggles with alcohol, and family life.
Composition History
The Kokkola Opera Association commissioned Heinz-Juhani Hofmann to compose this opera, based on a libretto by Juha Hurme, for the 2012 Kokkola Summer Opera Festival.
Critical Reception
The opera's premiere received an enthusiastic critical reception, with the leading opera magazine Opernwelt featuring it on its cover as one of the highlights of the 2012 world opera festivals.
Composer Biography
Heinz-Juhani Hofmann, born in 1973, has been a freelance composer since 2003, specializing in vocal music, with this opera being one of his chief works.
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