Sibelius: Symphony No. 1 in E Minor, Op. 39 - Complete Works - Series I - Volume 2

by Jean Sibelius

Sibelius' beginnings as a symphonist Jean Sibelius's first orchestral works were influenced by Finnish legends (_Kullervo_ , _En saga_). But even a few years after having written these works, he was planning another programmatic piece, a symphony in several movements entitled "Life of a Dreamer" or "Musical Dialogue." It was not until the compositional phase leading up to the world premiere in 1899 that Sibelius took his first steps towards "absolute" orchestral music, as is revealed by the editor in his knowledgeable preface. After a fundamental revision, the work ultimately established the fame of the young the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra took the First Symphony on its tour of Europe in 1900 and presented it with rousing success at the Paris Universal Exhibition. * Manufacturer SON610 * Full Score * Orchestra * Urtext / Critical Edition

Paperback

Published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Christopher Waller]

One of the great debut symphonies.

The opening movement is vibrant and modern, overflowing with energy. The second movement features a breathtaking theme in the style of Tchaikovsky, though its minor-mode restatement in the middle section is particularly stirring.

Still, the crowning glory is the big tune of the finale, a revision of the "Godfather" motif which opens the whole symphony. It flowers from the climbing scale on page 144 to bloom into a grand romantic melody of absolute passion, before the theme veers too far afield and collapses into the darkness.