Composer

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Yrjö Kilpinen

Yrjö Kilpinen's 'Kanteletar-Lauluja, Op. 100' is a song cycle composed in 1940. The work is based on traditional Finnish folk songs collected in the 'Kanteletar', a collection of Finnish folk poetry. The cycle consists of 20 songs, divided into two sets of ten. The premiere of the work took place in Helsinki in 1941. The first set of songs is characterized by a melancholic and introspective mood. The opening song, 'Kevätlinnuille', sets the tone with its mournful melody and sparse accompaniment. The second song, 'Kun on tuntehet', is a more upbeat and lively piece, but still retains a sense of longing and nostalgia. The third song, 'Kun maan korvessa kuljin', is a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases Kilpinen's skill at setting text to music. The fourth song, 'Kun päivä paistaa', is a more optimistic piece, with a brighter melody and more complex accompaniment. The fifth song, 'Kun tuuli käy', returns to the introspective mood of the first song, with a simple melody and sparse accompaniment. The second set of songs is more varied in mood and style. The opening song, 'Kun on oikein pieni', is a playful and lighthearted piece, with a jaunty melody and lively accompaniment. The second song, 'Kun on syksy', is a more contemplative piece, with a slower tempo and more complex harmonies. The third song, 'Kun on yö', is a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases Kilpinen's skill at setting text to music. The fourth song, 'Kun on kevät', is a more optimistic piece, with a brighter melody and more complex accompaniment. The fifth song, 'Kun on kesä', returns to the introspective mood of the first set, with a simple melody and sparse accompaniment. Overall, 'Kanteletar-Lauluja, Op. 100' is a beautiful and evocative work that showcases Kilpinen's skill at setting text to music. The cycle is characterized by a melancholic and introspective mood, with occasional moments of optimism and playfulness. The work is a testament to the enduring power of traditional folk songs, and to Kilpinen's ability to bring them to life through his music.

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