Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Jean Sibelius with this captivating album, released on Ondine in 2017. This collection showcases Sibelius's mastery of orchestral composition, featuring two of his most renowned tone poems, "Tapiola" and "En saga," which bookend his illustrious career. "Tapiola," a powerful and evocative work, is paired with the early yet unmistakable brilliance of "En saga," demonstrating Sibelius's enduring talent and innovation.
The album is further enriched by a selection of eight songs, beautifully orchestrated by the esteemed Finnish composer Aulis Sallinen in 2015. These songs, originally composed by Sibelius, are given new life through Sallinen's arrangements, adding a unique dimension to the listening experience. The songs include "De bägge rosorna," "Sippan," "Dold förening," "Under strandens granar," "Kyssens hopp," "Hennes budskap," "Men min fågel märks dock icke," and "Jägargossen."
Conducted by the talented Hannu Lintu and performed by the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Sibelius's music. With a total duration of 55 minutes, it offers a comprehensive exploration of Sibelius's orchestral and vocal works, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Sibelius or new to his music, this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.