Aulis Sallinen - Sallinen: Sinfonia / Chorali / String Quartet (LP)

Dive into the captivating world of Aulis Sallinen with his 1987 release, a masterful collection of orchestral and chamber works that showcase his distinctive voice in contemporary classical music. This album, released under the BIS label, offers a compelling journey through Sallinen's compositions, spanning symphonies, choral works, and string quartets.

The album opens with Symphony No. 1, a powerful and evocative piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. Chorali, Op. 22, follows, showcasing Sallinen's ability to blend choral and orchestral elements seamlessly. The centerpiece of the album is Symphony No. 3, Op. 35, presented in three movements: "Il tempo energico e sostenuto," "Chaconne," and "Vivace/ Giocoso - Finale." Each movement reveals Sallinen's intricate compositional style and his knack for creating memorable musical landscapes.

The album also includes Cadenze, a solo piece that highlights the technical prowess required to perform Sallinen's works, and Elegia Sebastian Knightille (Elegy for Sebastian Knight), Op. 10, a poignant and reflective piece. The final track, String Quartet No. 3, Op. 19, "Some Aspects of Peltoniemi Hintrikin’s Funeral March," is a standout, offering a unique blend of humor and pathos that is characteristic of Sallinen's work.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a testament to Sallinen's enduring influence in the world of classical music. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.