Notes and Editorial Reviews
Einar Englund passed away in 1999 at the age of 83. One of Finland's main symphonists from the post-Sibelius era, he left seven symphonies and six concertos for various solo instruments. The Cello Concerto was written in 1954. It's a brilliant work whose melodic and rhythmic patterns bear the unequivocal imprint of Bartók. The latter's presence is so strong in every detail that one could easily take the piece for a recently rediscovered posthumous concerto by the Hungarian composer! Some kind of achievement in itself... Subtitled "Aphorisms", the 6th Symphony was composed exactly 30 years later, and shows a much more personal style. In addition to the orchestra, a mixed chorus sings (in Finnish) words by the classic Greek
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philosopher Heraclitus in five of the six movements. Englund's lean, essential writing goes straight to the point, displaying a tremendous efficiency in its orchestral treatment, particularly in the spectacular Scherzo, the only purely instrumental section. The chorus's sober linearity makes a direct allusion to the father of Finnish music, the omnipresent Sibelius. Angular melodies and pungent rhythms build up a restless, anguished mood of great suggestive power. At the head of the Tampere Philharmonic Choir and Orchestra, Eri Klas finds the right atmosphere for each movement, firmly leading his marvelously disciplined forces to the enigmatic ending. Jan-Erik Gustafsson is the superb soloist of the concerto, sensitive to the slightest change of mood, and committed to every note. Recording and liner notes are just as exemplary.
--Luca Sabbatini, ClassicsToday.com
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Works on This Recording
1.
Symphony no 6 "Aphorisms" by Sven Einar Englund
Conductor:
Eri Klas
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Tampere Philharmonic Orchestra
Period: 20th Century
Written: 1984; Finland
2.
Concerto for Cello by Sven Einar Englund
Performer:
Jan-Erik Gustafsson (Cello)
Conductor:
Eri Klas
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Tampere Philharmonic Orchestra
Period: 20th Century
Written: 1954; Finland
Sound Samples
Cello Concerto: I. Moderato
Cello Concerto: II. Adagio
Cello Concerto: III. Allegro conciso
Symphony No. 6, "Aphorisms": I. Prologue or logos
Symphony No. 6, "Aphorisms": II. In juncture the whole
Symphony No. 6, "Aphorisms": III. Scherzo
Symphony No. 6, "Aphorisms": IV. Past those who step into the same stream
Symphony No. 6, "Aphorisms": V. This world order
Symphony No. 6, "Aphorisms": VI. Finale
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