Kokkonen: Complete Kokkonen Edition, Vol. 1

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Joonas Kokkonen with the "Complete Kokkonen Edition, Vol. 1," a remarkable collection of his symphonic works released in 1990. This album, spanning a full hour of enchanting music, is a testament to Kokkonen's mastery of composition and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music.

The album opens with "Sinfonisia luonnoksia" (Symphonic Sketches), a three-movement suite that showcases Kokkonen's talent for creating vivid musical landscapes. The first movement, "Lamento," is a poignant and reflective piece, while the second, "Pezzo giocoso," is a lively and playful composition. The final movement, "Religioso," is a deeply spiritual and introspective piece that leaves a lasting impression.

Next, the album features Kokkonen's Cello Concerto, a stunning work that highlights the expressive capabilities of the cello. The concerto is divided into five movements, each offering a unique blend of technical virtuosity and emotional depth. The first movement, "Moderato mosso - Allegro - Cadenza - Allegro vivace," is a dynamic and energetic piece, while the second, "Allegretto," is a more subdued and introspective movement. The third movement, "Adagio," is a deeply moving and lyrical piece, and the fourth, "Cadenza. Adagio, legatissimo possibile," is a technically demanding and emotionally charged cadenza. The final movement, "Allegro vivace," brings the concerto to a thrilling and triumphant conclusion.

The album concludes with Kokkonen's Symphony No. 4, a powerful and dramatic work that showcases his ability to create large-scale musical structures. The symphony is divided into three movements, each offering a unique blend of intensity and lyricism. The first movement, "Moderato," is a brooding and intense piece, while the second, "Allegro," is a lively and energetic movement. The final movement, "Adagio," is a deeply moving and reflective piece that brings the symphony to a poignant and memorable conclusion.

Recorded by the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Jukka-Pekka Saraste, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary classical music. The performances are outstanding, capturing the full range of Kokkonen's musical language and bringing his works to life with passion and precision. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.