Tuesday, September 15, 2020

COMPOSER OF THE WEEK: 28. Jean Sibelius


Born: December 8, 1865; Hämeenlinna, Finland
Died: September 20, 1957; Ainola, Finland
Nationality: Finnish
Occupation: Composer

Jean Sibelius was a Finnish composer and violinist of the late Romantic and early Modern periods. Born on December 8, 1865 and died on September 20, 1957, he is regarded as the greatest composer in his country, Finland. His music is also credited with helping Finland to develop its national identity during a period when Finland struggles for independence from Russia.

Sibelius's birthplace, Hämeenlinna

His core works are seven symphonies, which, like his other major works, are regularly performed and recorded in his home country and internationally. His other most famous works include Finlandia, the Karelia Suite, Valse triste, the Violin Concerto, Kullervo, and The Swan of Tuonela from the Lemminkäinen Suite.

Finlandia (first edition)

Sibelius was a prolific composer until the mid-1920s, but after completing his Seventh Symphony (1924), Tempest (1926) and Tapiola (1926), he almost stopped compositional activity during his last thirty years, showing a surprising and perplexing decline called "The Silence of Järvenpää", the location of his home.

Sibelius (1913)

Sibelius sketch, Albert Engström (1904)

On September 20, 1957, Sibelius died of a brain haemorrhage at the age of 91 in Ainola.
Since 2011, Finland has celebrated a Flag Day on 8 December, Sibelius' birthday, also known as the "Day of Finnish Music". In 2015, the 150th anniversary of Sibelius' birth, many special concerts and events were held, especially in the city of Helsinki.

Sibelius's funeral, Helsinki (1957)

Sibelius monument, Helsinki, Finland

Thank you.


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