Dive into the captivating world of Einojuhani Rautavaara with this compelling collection of his works, released on May 13, 2016, by Ondine. This album showcases the Finnish composer's mastery of neoclassical, avant-garde, and operatic styles, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.
The centerpiece of the album is "Rubáiyát," a five-movement work inspired by the poetry of Omar Khayyám. Each movement is interspersed with interludes, creating a seamless flow of music that explores themes of life, love, and mortality. The work is a testament to Rautavaara's ability to blend lyrical melodies with complex, modernist harmonies.
Also featured are two other significant works: "Balada" and "Into the Heart of Light 'Canto V'." "Balada" is a hauntingly beautiful piece for solo cello, showcasing Rautavaara's talent for writing evocative and expressive melodies. "Canto V" is a powerful and dramatic work for solo piano, demonstrating the composer's ability to create intense, emotionally charged music.
The album concludes with four songs from Rautavaara's opera "Rasputin." These songs offer a glimpse into the composer's operatic style, with their rich harmonies and dramatic vocal lines. The opera itself is a historical drama based on the life of the infamous Russian mystic Grigori Rasputin.
This album is a must for fans of contemporary classical music and anyone interested in exploring the work of one of Finland's most celebrated composers. With a total runtime of 59 minutes, it offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout