I am a little obsessed with Finlandia by Sibelius right now. Maybe it's in my Nordic blood. According to some saliva that I spat in a tube, I'm nearly 20% Scandinavian.
The live performance below, by the Helsinki Philharmonic and Sibelius Academy Choir with Jukka-Pekka Saraste at the podium, is nearly perfect. Sibelius originally wrote the piece for orchestra in 1899, conceptualising a musical narrative of Finland's history and natural beauty. It has since been arranged for many ensembles. Reportedly, the composer wasn't always happy about that, but he did sanction the arrangement for choir and orchestra featured below.
I am currently arranging the Hymn from the work for woodwind quartet (2 flutes, 2 clarinets). The composer probably wouldn't approve. Sorry, Sibelius.
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