Synopses & Reviews
This comprehensive study of the evolution of Finnish art music from continental predecessors and native folk music traces the development of Sibelius's musical language from his first major work,
Kullervo, the first genuine Finnish recitative, to the last tone poem,
Tapiola. De Gorog asserts the importance of
En Saga, Sibelius's first major, purely orchestral work, as a composition that affirms the composer's belief in both rhythm and in the variation method (the germ motif technique). The impact of folk music on the germ motif technique as well as on melody, phrase construction, and harmony are also analyzed. Although Sibelius's use of rhythm was more restrained than that of Bartok, Stravinsky, or Prokofiev, similarities in basic trends and folk music influences are noted by de Gorog. From Sibelius to Sallinen emphasizes the importance of various aspects of Finnish culture, the historical events that shaped that culture, and Finnish nationalism in the evolution of Finnish music in general. It also delineates the major sources of inspiration for Sibelius's unique musical idiom. The volume clarifies Sibelius's position as founder of Finnish art music and considers the evolution of trends established by him in the works of younger Finnish composers.
The first three chapters provide an historical prism through which to view Finnish culture and music, discuss Finnish music prior to Sibelius, and relate Finnish nationalism to the composer's philosophy and music. Chapters 4 through 7 focus on Sibelius, his compositions, and their lasting impact. Two final chapters address instrumental music after Sibelius and stage and vocal music in Finland. A discography provides ready access and full information on the works and completes the volume as an informative resource for students, teachers, researchers, musicologists, and performers as well as a valuable addition to university music libraries and conservatories.
Review
. . .this survey of Finnish music ia arguable the most important and certainly the most thoroughly researched text of its kind in the English language. Much of the work's effectiveness is due to the author's use of a broad historical, cultural, and analytical approach to the music of Sibelius and to the development of stylistic trends in Finnish music in general. Finally, the authors; presentation of diverse viewpoints as well as her own fresh perspectives reflects a well-rounded orientation that should serve as a model for those doing further research in Finnish music.Comptes-Rendus
Synopsis
This comprehensive study of the evolution of Finnish art music traces the development of Sibelius's musical language and the impact of Finnish history, culture, and nationalism on it while asserting the importance of rhythm and the germ motif technique as cornerstones of Sibelius's works. The impact of folk music on melody, phrase construction, and harmony; Sibelius's position as found of Finnish art music; and the evolution of Sibelian trends in younger Finnish composers are thoroughly detailed. A discography provides ready access and complete information on the works.
Description
Discography: p. [219]-234. Bibliography: p. [209]-217.
About the Author
LISA DE GOROG is a writer with a special interest in cultural history and musicology.