Composer: Jean Sibelius
Works: Orchestral Songs
Performers: Mari-Anne Häggander (soprano), Jorma Hynninen (baritone), Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra/Jorma Panula
Recording: Rec 1985? BIS-CD-270
Label: BIS
Jean Sibelius occupies a singular place in the pantheon of composers whose works resonate with the essence of nature and the Finnish landscape. His orchestral songs, often overshadowed by the grandeur of his symphonic output, represent a synthesis of lyrical beauty and rich orchestration, drawing upon both Finnish folklore and profound poetic texts. This recording features an assortment of his orchestral songs, showcasing Sibelius’s ability to marry the human voice with the vastness of orchestral sound, often invoking the elemental forces of nature that so inspired him.
The performances by soprano Mari-Anne Häggander and baritone Jorma Hynninen are noteworthy for their blend of technical precision and emotional depth. Hynninen, with his well-rounded baritone, navigates the tender nuances of pieces like “Come Away, Death” with a palpable sensitivity. His interpretative choices reflect a deep understanding of the underlying texts, particularly the somber themes of loss and longing that permeate Sibelius’s work. This is especially evident in “The Diamond in the March Snow,” where Hynninen brings forth a gentle yet resonant delivery, capturing the song’s nostalgic essence with remarkable clarity.
Häggander, while possessing a bright and piercing upper register, occasionally lacks the warmth that Hynninen brings to his performances. However, her rendition of “Sunrise,” with its recitative-like opening, offers a striking portrayal of awakening, characterized by both stillness and a burgeoning vibrancy. The clarity of her voice at climaxes is commendable, evoking the stark, icy landscapes Sibelius so often depicted. The orchestral accompaniment from the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Jorma Panula is equally commendable, blending seamlessly with the vocal lines while providing a rich tapestry of sound that enhances the emotional impact of each song.
The recording quality is exemplary, showcasing the intricacies of Sibelius’s orchestration with a vividness that immerses the listener in the sound world he created. The BIS label has a reputation for high-quality sound engineering, and this disc stands as a testament to that commitment, with a clear separation of voices and instruments, allowing the lush orchestral textures to shine through without overshadowing the vocal lines. The dynamic range is well balanced, capturing both the delicate whispers and the more forceful climaxes with equal fidelity.
Among the standout tracks, “The Rapid-Shooters Bride” emerges as a highlight, where the orchestral writing conjures vivid imagery of the tumultuous waters and tragic fate of the protagonists. The orchestration here recalls the drama of Wagner while maintaining Sibelius’s unique voice, and the performance captures both the drama and the expectation that permeates the narrative. This piece exemplifies Sibelius’s ability to merge storytelling with rich harmonic language, creating an experience that is as much about the orchestral color as it is about the vocal delivery.
This collection serves as a valuable entry point for listeners seeking to explore the vocal side of Sibelius, often eclipsed by his symphonic and orchestral works. The interpretive strengths of Hynninen, combined with Häggander’s incisive clarity, make for a compelling listen, even as one might wish for a more consistent warmth from the soprano. The artistry of the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra under Panula’s direction further enriches the experience, ensuring that Sibelius’s intricate orchestral textures are brought to life with authenticity and sensitivity. This recording is an essential addition to the catalog of Sibelius’s vocal works, offering both a deep appreciation for his musical language and a celebration of the human voice as it interacts with the natural world he so deeply revered.
