Rautavaara: Before the Icons - A Tapestry of Life

Einojuhani Rautavaara, the prolific Finnish composer, presents a captivating blend of neoclassical, avant-garde, and operatic elements in his 2010 album "Rautavaara: Before the Icons - A Tapestry of Life." This album is a testament to Rautavaara's enduring creativity, as it was composed when he was 79 years old. The album features two distinct suites: "Before the Icons" and "A Tapestry of Life," each divided into four movements. Originally conceived as a piano suite in 1955, "Before the Icons" was later orchestrated by Rautavaara, who separated and expanded some of the individual pieces. The Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Leif Segerstam, brings these compositions to life with a duration of 49 minutes. This album offers a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of Rautavaara's musical style and his ability to create intricate, thought-provoking pieces that continue to resonate with audiences.