The famous piece The Swan of Tuonela, a significant work in Finnish Symbolism, was originally intended as an overture for Sibelius's opera Veneen luominen.
Composer Biography
Jean Sibelius, though a late starter as a composer, quickly gained prominence in Finland, especially after the 1892 premiere of his work Kullervo.
Composition History
Some music originally sketched for Sibelius's unfinished opera Veneen luominen was later incorporated into his Lemminkäinen suite, with the character Väinämöinen replaced by Lemminkäinen.
Recording & Production
This recording was made at the Helsinki Music Centre in Finland in October and November 2014.
Performer Biography
Hannu Lintu, the conductor on this album, is a highly sought-after Finnish conductor who has held artistic director and chief conductor positions with several orchestras.
Composition History
Sibelius initially planned an opera titled Veneen luominen (The building of the boat), based on the Finnish national epic, the Kalevala, but found the story undramatic for a full-length opera.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Sibelius realized he was not suited for opera and was instead a symphonic composer, leading him to abandon his opera project and focus on symphonic works.
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