Rautavaara, E.: String Orchestra Works - Canto I-Iv / Hommage A Zoltan Kodaly / Suite / Ballad - Einojuhani Rautavaara

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Einojuhani Rautavaara's "String Orchestra Works," a remarkable collection of compositions that showcase the Finnish composer's unique neoclassical and avant-garde style. Released in 1994 under the Ondine label, this album is a testament to Rautavaara's mastery of string orchestration, offering a rich and diverse listening experience that spans over an hour and fifty-four minutes.

The album features a variety of pieces, including the evocative "Pelimannit (the Fiddlers)" suite, which draws inspiration from Finnish folk music, and the intricate "Divertimento," showcasing Rautavaara's ability to blend traditional and modern elements. The "Canto" series, consisting of four movements, is a profound exploration of musical expression, while the "Hommage" pieces pay tribute to influential figures like Ferenc Liszt, Béla Bartók, and Zoltán Kodály.

Performed by the Ostrobothnian Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Juha Kangas, the album benefits from the ensemble's precise and nuanced playing, bringing Rautavaara's compositions to life with clarity and depth. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a compelling journey through the imaginative and technically impressive works of one of Finland's most celebrated composers.

1 januari 1994

(P) 1994 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.