Composer

:

Jean Sibelius

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Tone Poem

Compose Date

:

1892

First Performance

:

Apr 28, 1892

Average_duration

:

74:06

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Kullervo, Op. 7 is a symphonic poem composed by Jean Sibelius in 1892. It is based on the Finnish epic poem Kalevala, which tells the story of Kullervo, a tragic hero who is cursed from birth. The work is scored for solo baritone, male choir, and orchestra. The premiere of Kullervo took place on April 28, 1892, in Helsinki, conducted by the composer himself. The soloist was the baritone singer A.W. Rautio, and the choir was the Helsinki University Chorus. The work is divided into five movements, each of which tells a different part of Kullervo's story. The first movement, "Introduction," sets the scene with a somber, mournful theme that represents Kullervo's tragic fate. The second movement, "Kullervo's Youth," is more lively and energetic, depicting Kullervo's early years as a shepherd boy. The third movement, "Kullervo and His Sister," is the emotional heart of the work, as Kullervo discovers that the woman he has fallen in love with is actually his long-lost sister. The music is tender and lyrical, with a haunting melody that represents the siblings' bond. The fourth movement, "Kullervo Goes to War," is a dramatic and powerful depiction of Kullervo's battles. The music is full of energy and excitement, with driving rhythms and bold brass fanfares. The final movement, "Kullervo's Death," is a somber and mournful conclusion to the work, as Kullervo meets his tragic end. Kullervo is characterized by Sibelius's use of Finnish folk melodies and rhythms, which give the work a distinctly nationalistic flavor. The music is also notable for its use of orchestral color, with Sibelius employing a wide range of instruments to create a rich and varied sound. The work is considered one of Sibelius's most important early works, and it helped establish him as a leading figure in Finnish music.

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