3/12/2024 Personal Thoughts about Composers and Their Works - Sibelius

Chapter 12  Jean Sibelius

(1865～1957, died at 91)

After studying law at the University of Helsinki, Jean Sibelius later turned to music, and at the Helsinki Conservatory of Music, he met the man who is said to be the father of Finland’s national music. Sibelius studied abroad in Berlin and Vienna. The subject matter was the Finnish traditional epic poem "Kalevala," and he composed outstanding works of the program music and symphonies.

*Symphony No. 2 in D major:  This piece was completed in 1902 and reflects my impressions during my stay in Italy. It seems to be generally played the most, but with the exception of the 4th movement, the range of performance volume increases and decreases is large. It is difficult music for me to listen to.

*Symphony No. 4 in A minor:  His inner music, which is filled with passion and dark fantasies, is not popular, but many people consider this piece to be his greatest masterpiece, but to me it still has a dark image. It seems to me that the symphonic poem “Finlandia” is his masterpiece.

*Violin Concerto in D minor, Op. 47:  The only concerto by symphonic composer Sibelius. The first movement is a little difficult. The second and third movements have beautiful melodies and are worth listening to. Listen to the performances by Anne Sophie Mutter and Akiko Suwanai. Both are great performances.

*Serenade No. 1 & No. 2 and Humoresque No. 1:  I felt that both songs let the tones of the instrument violin be heard to the fullest, but I think they are difficult pieces for the performers.

*Symphonic poem “Finlandia” Op. 26 A powerful song that expresses the Finnish people's strong desire to escape the tyranny of imperial Russia.

*The symphonic poems “Tapiola” and “The Swan of Tuonela” are songs with gray landscapes that don't suit my tastes. “Lemminkäinen's Homecoming” has a good march-like rhythm.

Sibelius, who left behind seven symphonic poems, is considered one of the greatest symphonists (symphony composers) of the 20th century. Sibelius’ symphonic poems are inspired by the Kalevala from Scandinavian legends and about the nature of Finland. The composition was based on mythology.

For your reference, I have put together a list of works by composers that I listened to anew in the table below.