The middle movement, Mesto ('sad'), is unusually long at about 25 minutes, threatening to disrupt the proportions of the entire work.
Critical Reception
Despite its demands on the listener, Pettersson's Concerto No. 3 was met with huge acclaim at its premiere, especially by younger audience members.
Compositional Technique
The main theme of the first movement, despite its gripping impact, is actually a twelve-tone row, though Pettersson avoids dogmatic use of dodecaphony.
Recording & Production
The Nordic Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Christian Lindberg, aims to combine classical repertoire with both old and new Scandinavian music, as demonstrated on this and other BIS recordings.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Pettersson viewed his music as deeply personal, stating, "It's my mother who is my music. It's her voice that speaks there."
Performer Biography
Christian Lindberg, the conductor, is a world-famous trombone soloist who initially resisted becoming a conductor, turning down an invitation five times.
Composition History
Allan Pettersson's Concerto No. 3 for string orchestra was composed between 1956 and 1957, chronologically placing it between his Third and Fourth Symphonies.
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