Sibelius's tone poem Tapiola, his last great orchestral work, was inspired by nature and something inexpressible in words, rather than the Kalevala.
Performer Biography
Anne Sofie von Otter, the mezzo-soprano on this recording, has a diverse discography, including collaborations with pop icon Elvis Costello and jazz pianist Brad Mehldau.
Composition History
The Eight Songs on this album were orchestrated by Aulis Sallinen for mezzo-soprano Anne Sofie von Otter to commemorate Sibelius's 150th birthday.
Composition History
Sibelius's tone poem En Saga, though requested as an accessible work, was considered enigmatic by critics and was later revised by the composer.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The poetry of Johan Ludvig Runeberg, a major Finnish poet who wrote in Swedish, was crucial to Sibelius's vocal works, shaping his impression of the Finnish psyche.
Compositional Technique
Tapiola, though written in strict sonata form, is largely perceived as a set of variations or metamorphoses due to its monothematic nature.
Composer Biography
Sibelius considered En Saga one of his most profound works psychologically, stating it contained his entire youth and revealed himself completely.
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