Sibelius: Symphony No. 5 - Lutoslawski: Concerto for Orchestra

Albumbeschreibung

Few composers have risen to the level of nationalistic pride and influence as Jean Sibelius. Throughout his output, his works have captured the sights of his native Finland, immortalized the country's folk songs and stories, and served as a rallying cry for his people in times of war. Pohjola's Daughter -- one of his most evocative tone poems -- is played alongside his Fifth Symphony, written at the cusp of the First World War. Written half a continent away, Witold Lutoslawski's Concerto for Orchestra shares Sibelius' use of folk idioms, this time of the composer's native Poland. Combined on this London Philharmonic Orchestra disc, these three works, though contrasting, are united in their robust and diverse orchestral colors, palpable nationalism, and forward-thinking composition. Led by Finnish conductor Jukka-Pekka Saraste, the LPO captures all of these characteristics brilliantly. The sound is big, booming, and boisterous, but is reduced to scalpel-like precision and intimacy when called for, offering listeners performances filled with gripping contrast. Saraste's vision of the Lutoslawski is meticulously carried out by the responsive orchestra, but the group truly shines in his informed, spacious, and demonstrative interpretations of Pohjola and the Fifth Symphony. Recorded on the LPO's own label, sound quality is rich, detailed, and inviting.
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