Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Jean Sibelius with this exquisite album, "Sibelius: Lemminkäinen Suite and Violin Concerto." Released in 1995 under the naïve classique label, this classical masterpiece showcases Sibelius' unparalleled orchestral genius, blending ancient Finnish legends with timeless musical elegance.
The album is a journey through two of Sibelius' most celebrated works. The Lemminkäinen Suite, Op. 22, is a four-movement orchestral suite inspired by the Finnish epic poem, the Kalevala. Each movement—from the lively "Lemminkäinen and the Maidens of the Island" to the haunting "The Swan of Tuonela," the dramatic "Lemminkäinen in Tuonela," and the triumphant "Lemminkäinen's Return"—paints a vivid musical narrative that transports you to the heart of Finnish mythology.
Complementing the suite is Sibelius' renowned Violin Concerto in D Minor, Op. 47. This three-movement concerto, featuring the Orchestre Philharmonique Royal de Liège and conducted by Pierre Bartholomée, is a testament to Sibelius' mastery of orchestration and his ability to create deeply expressive and technically demanding works for the violin. The concerto's intricate melodies and rich harmonies showcase the violin's versatility and the orchestra's dynamic range.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Sibelius' orchestral and concerto repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to Sibelius' music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Dive into the enchanting world of Jean Sibelius and discover the timeless beauty of his music.