The hymn "Salem" is the only piece from Sibelius's Masonic Ritual Music that he later orchestrated.
Composition History
Sibelius's Masonic Ritual Music was first performed on January 12, 1927, though some movements had been played without rehearsal days earlier.
Composer Biography
Jean Sibelius was one of the first 27 members to join the Suomi Lodge No. 1, a new Masonic lodge established in Finland in 1922, and even served as its organist.
Composition History
At the premiere of his Masonic Ritual Music, Sibelius was named an Honorary Member of the Grand Lodge of Finland, a very rare honor.
Composition History
Sibelius revised some movements and added new ones to his Masonic Ritual Music in the 1940s, with two of these additions believed to be his last original compositions.
Compositional Technique
In the movement "Kellä kaipuu rinnassansa," Sibelius extensively quotes from his own quartet piece Andante festivo, focusing on its second theme.
Recording & Production
This recording of the organ version of Sibelius's Masonic Ritual Music is the first to follow the original song texts according to Sibelius's manuscripts.
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Jarnefelt: Symphonic Fantasy / Suite in E flat major / Serenade / Berceuse, "Lullaby"
