Although Sibelius went on to develop his symphonic ideas in the later works, his second has remained perhaps his favourite with audiences for its heartfelt melodies and epic climaxes.
Vladimir Ashkenazy Photo: Keith Saunders
Sibelius was identified as being part of his country’s emerging independence from Russia and there were nationalist protests at the premiere of his first symphony.
For his second symphony, premiered in 1902, many in the sold-out audience were there for political reasons – but they also witnessed the new music of Finland and a magnificent addition to the Finnish repertoire.
Sibelius was aware of the expectation his fellow citizens had of him with this piece; but he also wished to honour the tradition of the symphony and, especially, the legacy of Beethoven.
Heath Lees, who wrote the programme notes for tonight’s concert, says "In this work, without sacrificing his nationalist voice, Sibelius had succeeded in carrying the Beethoven symphony into the 20th century.”
The symphony has four movements. The first is uplifting as well as questioning; the second, stormy and tragic; the third (Scherzo), a headlong rush with a lyrical and plaintive trio; and the fourth, a majestic ending that never fails to get hearts pumping.
Recorded in Auckland Town Hall on 6 October 2016 by RNZ Concert
Producer: Tim Dodd, Engineer: Adrian Hollay
