Description
Rune Bergmann, conductor
Sterling Elliott, cello
SIBELIUS Finlandia
HAYDN Cello Concerto No. 1 in C major
GRIEG Symphonic Dances
The powerful, tense chords of Sibelius’ patriotic Finlandia open a program filled with nationalistic pride. The orchestration is stirring, powerful, and yet restrained at times—evocative of the fact that the symphonic poem was written as the composer’s “battle hymn” for Finland as it faced political opposition. Haydn’s lyrically virtuosic Cello Concerto No. 2 follows—regarded as one of the greatest works for cello of the Classical era—sparkling and singing under talented young star Sterling Elliott’s fingers. Grieg’s four charming Symphonic Dances, inspired by Norwegian folk songs, close the program with jaunty rhythms and folk-dance melodies that played a key role in formalizing Norway’s national identity.
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