Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Finnish composer Einojuhani Rautavaara with his compelling album "Rautavaara: Modificata, Incantations & Towards the Horizon." Released on February 7, 2012, this album is a testament to Rautavaara's diverse musical genius, blending neoclassical, avant-garde, and operatic elements into a cohesive and enchanting experience.
The album features three distinct works: the orchestral piece "Modificata," the Percussion Concerto "Incantations," and the Cello Concerto No. 2 "Towards the Horizon." Each piece showcases Rautavaara's unique compositional voice, from the introspective and personal expressions in "Towards the Horizon" to the generalized, rhythmic complexity of "Incantations."
Performed by the esteemed Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of John Storgårds, this recording couples Rautavaara's latest concerto works with an orchestral piece from his early Modernist period. The album's duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes offers a substantial journey through Rautavaara's evolving musical landscape.
"Modificata" opens the album with its three movements, each exploring different facets of the composer's early style. The Percussion Concerto "Incantations" follows, with its three contrasting movements—"Pesante," "Espressivo," and "Animato"—highlighting the versatility and virtuosity of the percussion soloist. The album concludes with the Cello Concerto No. 2 "Towards the Horizon," a deeply personal and expressive work that showcases the cello's lyrical and dramatic capabilities.
This album is a must for fans of contemporary classical music and those seeking to explore the rich and varied output of Einojuhani Rautavaara. Whether you're a seasoned listener or new to his work, this album offers a rewarding and engaging exploration of one of Finland's most celebrated composers.
Vinylscout