Jean Sibelius’s Symphony No. 1 in E minor, Op. 39, is a landmark work in the history of classical music and a testament to the composer’s skill and artistic vision. Composed between 1895 and 1899, the symphony is a masterpiece of Romantic orchestral music and is widely regarded as one of Sibelius’s greatest works.
The first movement of the symphony is marked by its sweeping melodies and dramatic contrasts, with the orchestral sections alternating between lush and powerful moments and more introspective and lyrical passages. The second movement is a scherzo, characterized by its playful and energetic rhythm, with the strings and woodwinds weaving intricate patterns over a driving rhythm in the percussion section.
The third movement is a slow and contemplative adagio, characterized by its beautiful and expressive melodies. Sibelius creates a sense of stillness and introspection with delicate, sustained strings, and soft, atmospheric woodwinds. The movement builds to a climax before resolving in a peaceful and serene coda.
The final movement is a triumphant and celebratory allegro, with the full orchestra building to a rousing conclusion. Sibelius creates a sense of excitement and energy with driving rhythms and powerful brass and percussion, culminating in a triumphant and joyful finish that leaves a lasting impression on the listener.
Throughout the symphony, Sibelius demonstrates his mastery of orchestration, creating a rich and vibrant sound that is uniquely his own. He also draws on the musical traditions of his native Finland, incorporating folk melodies and rhythms into his music to create a distinctive and personal style.
Sibelius’s Symphony No. 1 is a landmark work that continues to be widely performed and recorded to this day. Its sweeping melodies, dynamic contrasts, and emotional depth make it one of the greatest symphonies of the Romantic era, and a testament to Sibelius’s skill as a composer and his contribution to music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, this symphony is sure to leave a lasting impression and is highly recommended for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of music.
*image at the top of the page an internal photograph of the Sibelius Wind Pipe Organ
McKenzie Warriner is a Saskatchewan born and raised soprano bringing
Duff Warkentin has been a choral conductor and clinician for many years. His formal post-
Martin MacDonald is one of Canada’s most dynamic and outstanding young conductors and has been awarded both the Heinz Unger Award and the Jean-Marie Beaudet Award for orchestral conducting. Martin has guest conducted extensively across Canada having worked with the orchestras of Toronto, National Arts Centre, Vancouver, Victoria, Kamloops, Edmonton, Calgary, Winnipeg, Hamilton, Kingston, Kitchener-Waterloo, London, Niagara, Sudbury, Thunder Bay, Windsor, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland. He has served as a Cover and Guest Conductor for the National Ballet of Canada for several productions, and has worked with the Minnesota Ballet, Atlantic Ballet, and Halifax Dance. Martin has recorded extensively for the CBC and for several commercial recordings. Most notably, Martin has served as Resident Conductor, Associate Conductor, and a regular guest conductor of Symphony Nova Scotia since 2008 with over 200 performances in a diverse range of programs and artists. Previously, Martin served as Associate Conductor of the National Academy Orchestra of Canada, and has participated in several international conducting workshops and competitions.
Consistently praised for her brilliant technique, tonal beauty, and superb musicianship, Canadian pianist Angela Cheng is one of her country’s national treasures. In addition to regular guest appearances with virtually every orchestra in Canada, she has performed with the symphonies of Saint Louis, Houston, Indianapolis, Colorado, Utah, San Diego and Jacksonville, as well as the philharmonic orchestras of Buffalo, Louisiana, Rhode Island, London, Israel and Minas Gerais in Brazil.
