Einojuhani Rautavaara's 2001 release on Ondine is a captivating journey through the realms of neoclassical, avant-garde, and opera, showcasing the composer's unique ability to blend traditional and modern elements. This album is a testament to Rautavaara's versatility and innovation, featuring a diverse range of works that span from orchestral concertos to choral pieces.
The album opens with "Cantus arcticus," a concerto for birds and orchestra that beautifully captures the essence of the Arctic landscape. The three-movement work is a symphony of nature, with the sounds of birds seamlessly integrated into the orchestral score. Following this is "A Requiem in Our Time," a powerful and poignant choral piece that reflects on the human condition and the search for meaning in a turbulent world.
"The Fiddlers," a five-movement suite for string orchestra, offers a glimpse into Finnish folk music and dance. Each movement is named after a different character or scene, painting a vivid picture of rural life in Finland. "Isle of Bliss" is a short but enchanting interlude, evoking the serenity and beauty of a secluded paradise.
The album concludes with the "Piano Concerto No. 1," a three-movement work that showcases Rautavaara's mastery of the concerto form. The concerto is a tour de force of technical virtuosity and emotional depth, with the piano and orchestra engaging in a dynamic dialogue throughout.
Clocking in at just under 1 hour and 18 minutes, this album is a compelling exploration of Rautavaara's musical language and a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary classical music.
Tracks
Cantus arcticus, Op. 61, "Concerto for Birds and Orchestra": I. The BogEinojuhani Rautavaara, Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra, Max Pommer
Cantus arcticus, Op. 61, "Concerto for Birds and Orchestra": II. MelancholyEinojuhani Rautavaara, Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra, Max Pommer
Cantus arcticus, Op. 61, "Concerto for Birds and Orchestra": III. Swans MigratingEinojuhani Rautavaara, Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra, Max Pommer
A Requiem in Our Time: HymnusEinojuhani Rautavaara, Finnish Brass Symphony, Hannu Lintu
A Requiem in Our Time: Credo et dupitoEinojuhani Rautavaara, Finnish Brass Symphony, Hannu Lintu
A Requiem in Our Time: Dies iraeEinojuhani Rautavaara, Finnish Brass Symphony, Hannu Lintu
A Requiem in Our Time: LacrymosaEinojuhani Rautavaara, Finnish Brass Symphony, Hannu Lintu
Pelimannit (The Fiddlers), Op. 1: I. Närböläisten braa speli [The Närbö Villagers in Fine Fettle] [Version for String Orchestra]Einojuhani Rautavaara, Ostrobothnian Chamber Orchestra, Juha Kangas
Pelimannit (The Fiddlers), Op. 1: II. Kopsin Jonas [Mr. Jonas Kopsi] [Version for String Orchestra]Einojuhani Rautavaara, Ostrobothnian Chamber Orchestra, Juha Kangas
Pelimannit (The Fiddlers), Op. 1: III. Klockar Samuel Dikström [Bell-ringer Samuel Dikström] [Version for String Orchestra]Einojuhani Rautavaara, Ostrobothnian Chamber Orchestra, Juha Kangas
Pelimannit (The Fiddlers), Op. 1: IV. Pirun polska [Devil's Schottische] [Version for String Orchestra]Einojuhani Rautavaara, Ostrobothnian Chamber Orchestra, Juha Kangas
Pelimannit (The Fiddlers), Op. 1: V. Hypyt [Jumps] [Version for String Orchestra]Einojuhani Rautavaara, Ostrobothnian Chamber Orchestra, Juha Kangas
Isle of BlissEinojuhani Rautavaara, Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, Leif Segerstam
Symphony No. 7, "Angel of Light": III. Come un sognoEinojuhani Rautavaara, Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, Leif Segerstam
Piano Concerto No. 1, Op. 45: I. Con grandezzaEinojuhani Rautavaara, Ralf Gothoni, Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra, Max Pommer
Piano Concerto No. 1, Op. 45: II. AndanteEinojuhani Rautavaara, Ralf Gothoni, Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra, Max Pommer
Piano Concerto No. 1, Op. 45: III. Molto vivaceEinojuhani Rautavaara, Ralf Gothoni, Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra, Max Pommer
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