Saariaho: L'Aile du songe & Poems by Saint-John Perse

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kaija Saariaho's "L'Aile du songe & Poems by Saint-John Perse," a captivating exploration of contemporary and experimental music. This 2002 release from naïve classique is a testament to Saariaho's mastery of ethereal orchestral textures and her unique ability to blend the poetic with the musical.

The album features the Finnish composer's flute concerto, "L'Aile du songe" (Wing of Dream), performed by the talented Camilla Hoitenga with the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Jukka-Pekka Saraste. The concerto is a rich, multi-faceted work that delves into the intricate beauty of Saint-John Perse's poems from the collection "Oiseaux" (Birds). The pieces are performed in both French and English, offering a bilingual journey through Saariaho's interpretation of Perse's verses.

The concerto is divided into five movements, each offering a distinct sonic landscape. From the airy "Aérienne prélude" to the grounded "Terrestre l'oiseau dansant," Saariaho's composition takes you on a journey through the skies and back to earth, exploring the essence of birds and their flight. The album also includes individual tracks from the "Oiseaux" collection, each a miniature masterpiece that showcases Saariaho's ability to capture the essence of Perse's poetry in sound.

With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a perfect introduction to Saariaho's work for those new to her music, and a delightful addition to the collection of those already familiar with her compositions. Whether you're a fan of contemporary classical music or simply looking to expand your musical horizons, "L'Aile du songe & Poems by Saint-John Perse" is an album that promises to captivate and inspire.