Carl Nielsen's First Symphony is notable for being one of the first symphonic works in music history to begin in one key (G minor) and end in a completely different one (C major).
Composer Biography
Carl Nielsen, the composer, once described one of his overtures as merely an "occasional piece" and "a piece of jobbery on my part."
Composition History
The premiere of Carl Nielsen's Flute Concerto was almost not ready in time, as the composer suffered from a stomach ailment that prevented him from working for two weeks, forcing a provisional ending.
Critical Reception
Carl Nielsen's First Symphony received "almost prophetic reviews," with one critic describing it as "unsettled and brutal in its harmonies and modulations, but nevertheless so wonderfully innocent and unknowing, as if one saw a child playing with dynamite."
Composer's Artistic Vision
Carl Nielsen believed that the flute, originating from Arcadia, prefers pastoral atmospheres, and composers must adapt to its sweetness to avoid being seen as barbarians.
Performer Biography
Patrick Gallois, the flautist on this recording, studied with renowned flautists Jean-Pierre Rampal and Maxence Larrieu at the Paris Conservatory, where he received its highest distinction.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Carl Nielsen stated that he never planned his symphonies, believing they came to him naturally and could not go wrong because they were a part of himself.
