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

Album Description

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.

1 januari 2006

(P) 2006 Ondine

About Einojuhani Rautavaara

Einojuhani Rautavaara, a titan of Finnish music born in 1928, was a composer of remarkable versatility and depth, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music until his passing in 2016. Often hailed as Finland's finest composer since Jean Sibelius, Rautavaara's works span a vast array of styles, from neoclassical to avant-garde, and include eight symphonies, nine operas, and fifteen concertos. His music is celebrated for its stylistic adaptability, blending modernism with mystical romanticism, creating a sound that is uniquely his own. Notable works like his Third Symphony and the original Cantus arcticus, which incorporates recorded birdsong from the Arctic Circle, showcase his innovative spirit and deep connection to nature. Rautavaara's contributions have cemented his legacy as a leading figure in contemporary Finnish music, inspiring generations of musicians and listeners alike.