Sibelius: Kuolema / King Kristian II [complete incidental music]

Jean Sibelius was the most significant figure in the formation of Finland's musical identity. Beyond the famous symphonies and tone poems he was prolific in other genres, including music for the theatre. King Christian II and Kuolema ensured Sibelius's fame throughout Europe, the latter including the haunting melody (track 2) which would later become the Valse triste. The Two Songs from Twelfth Night contrast the spectre of death with more comical moods, an effect also to be heard in one of Sibelius's least performed orchestral works, the Overture in A minor. This is the first of a six volume set of orchestral works by Jean Sibelius which sets out to explore his prolific output beyond the core oeuvre of the symphonies and violin concerto. We are delighted to have conductor Leif Segerstam at the helm of this project. Acclaimed for his many recordings with numerous orchestras, Segerstam was awarded the annual Finnish State Prize for Music in 2004, and in 2005 the highly esteemed Sibelius Medal. With the platinum recordmaking and award winning Turku Philharmonic as its superbly firm bedrock, this new recording of Sibelius also presents baritone Waltteri Torikka, one of the most promising new talents in the next generation of opera singers from Finland and named Young Musician of the Year 2014 by the Finnish Pro Musica Foundation. Soprano Pia Pajala is a versatile performer known for her wide vocal range, powerful expression and strong interpretations of Sibelius and Finnish classical music.