Rautavaara, E.: Sonnets of Shakespeare / 5 Sonette an Orpheus / Die Liebenden / God's Way / 3 Songs From the Opera Aleksis Kivi

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Einojuhani Rautavaara, one of Finland's most celebrated composers, with this captivating album released on January 1, 2006. This collection brings together five distinct sets of songs for baritone and orchestra, showcasing Rautavaara's mastery of neoclassical, avant-garde, and operatic styles.

The album begins with Rautavaara's hauntingly beautiful settings of three Shakespeare sonnets, followed by his deeply moving "5 Sonette an Orpheus," inspired by the poetry of Rainer Maria Rilke. These pieces are performed with exquisite sensitivity by baritone Gabriel Suovanen and the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Leif Segerstam.

Next, the album delves into the intense and intimate world of "Die Liebenden" (The Lovers), a cycle of songs that explore the depths of human love and longing. The final two sets of songs, "God's Way" and "3 Songs from the Opera Aleksis Kivi," offer a glimpse into Rautavaara's operatic works, with the latter featuring songs from his opera based on the works of Finnish author Aleksis Kivi.

With a total runtime of 57 minutes, this album is a testament to Rautavaara's enduring appeal and his unique ability to blend traditional and modern elements in his compositions. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.