Sibelius, J.: 10 Little Pieces / 2 Serenades / The Tempest / 7 Songs

Featuring

Olli Mustonen
Karita Mattila
Ilmo Ranta
Pekka Kuusisto
Jukka-Pekka Saraste
Monica Groop

Leif Segerstam
Jorma Hynninen
Tapiola Sinfonietta
Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra
Savonlinna Opera Festival Choir
Tampere Filharmonia
Jean Sibelius

Did you know?

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Composer's Artistic Vision

Sibelius often customized his solo songs for specific singers, varying his style from detailed Lied-like writing to a voluptuously Romantic, almost operatic idiom.

Composition History

Sibelius wrote his Bagatelles for piano during World War I, when it was difficult to earn money from large-scale works.

Performer Biography

Pekka Kuusisto, the violinist, is known for his unprejudiced approach and inspired performances, making him an ideal interpreter for Sibelius's Serenades.

Compositional Technique

The French-language titles of Sibelius's Bagatelles for piano, such as Valse and Mazurka, place them in an international context and evoke happier, bygone times.

Performer Biography

Karita Mattila, the soprano on this album, is described as a great Finnish diva whose similar gifts to Aino Ackté have taken her to the world's greatest opera venues.

Historical Context

The song 'Laulu ristilukista' (Song of the spider) by Sibelius became popular due to its symbolism, with the spider representing the tightening grip of the Tsar's Government on autonomous Finland.