Aulis Sallinen

Aulis Sallinen, born in 1935 in Salmi, Finland, is a renowned composer whose music seamlessly blends Finnish national elements with contemporary techniques. His journey into composition began almost serendipitously, with his first mature work penned in protest during a trip to Germany in 1962. Sallinen's education at the Sibelius Academy from 1955 to 1960 laid a strong foundation, but his style evolved beyond the tonal music he initially composed to please his teachers. His reputation is particularly marked by his operas, with "The Red Line" and "The Horseman" standing out as notable works. Sallinen's compositions, such as "The Wedding Procession of Ilmari and the Golden Woman" and "Lemminki in Pohjola," reflect his unique voice and have earned him international acclaim. His most recent project, "The Iron Age," showcases his ongoing innovation and depth as a composer.