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Saariaho's Final Works Resonate Beyond the Grave
4 Sep
Summary
- Kaija Saariaho's unrecorded music is being released posthumously.
- Vista, a tone poem inspired by a drive to San Diego, is a major work.
- Saarikoski Songs highlight humanity's impact on the natural world.
Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho, who passed away in 2023, is honored with the release of three previously unrecorded works. These compositions, representing premieres, showcase her distinctive musical voice across a span of forty years. The most extensive piece, "Vista" from 2019, is a tone poem inspired by a drive along Interstate 5 towards San Diego.
"Vista" unfolds in two parts: "Horizons," which begins with a tranquil oboe duet and develops with rich orchestral colors, and "Targets," a more energetic section that concludes serenely. Sakari Oramo conducts the BBC Symphony Orchestra with sensitivity and precision.
Also featured are the "Saarikoski Songs," presented in their 2021 orchestrated version. These pieces set five poems by Pentti Saarikoski, focusing on environmental themes. Longtime collaborator Anu Komsi delivers a compelling performance of the soprano part, accompanied by the orchestra's intricate textures.
The collection is completed by "Three Preludes" from 1981, originally for soprano and organ, Saariaho's own instrument. Komsi's authoritative vocals are paired with Marzi Nyman's adept handling of the angular instrumental lines.
