Composer

:

Aulis Sallinen

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

1:40

Winter was Hard, Op. 20 is a composition by Finnish composer Aulis Sallinen. It was composed in 1972 and premiered on May 4, 1973, by the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra conducted by Paavo Berglund. The piece is divided into four movements and has a total duration of approximately 25 minutes. The first movement, "Winter Landscape," begins with a slow and somber introduction, featuring the low strings and woodwinds. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the brass and percussion joining in, creating a sense of impending danger. The movement ends with a sudden, sharp chord, representing the harshness of winter. The second movement, "The Village," is more lively and upbeat, featuring a folk-like melody played by the strings. The music is reminiscent of a traditional Finnish dance, with the percussion providing a driving rhythm. The movement ends with a sudden, abrupt stop, representing the isolation and loneliness of the village in winter. The third movement, "The Church," is a slow and contemplative piece, featuring a haunting melody played by the oboe. The music is reflective and introspective, with the strings providing a lush and rich accompaniment. The movement ends with a quiet, peaceful chord, representing the solace found in religion. The final movement, "The Procession," is a fast and frenzied piece, featuring a driving rhythm played by the percussion. The music is chaotic and dissonant, with the brass and woodwinds playing angular and jagged melodies. The movement ends with a sudden, explosive chord, representing the harshness and unpredictability of winter. Overall, Winter was Hard, Op. 20 is a powerful and evocative piece, capturing the harshness and beauty of winter in Finland. Sallinen's use of folk melodies and traditional Finnish instruments, such as the kantele, give the piece a distinctly Finnish flavor, while his use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies create a sense of unease and tension.

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