6th Symphony Concert

They are the great symphonists of Northern Europe: the Dane Carl Nielsen and the Finn Jean Sibelius. Both—born in 1865—developed their own unique, modern musical language outside the major schools and movements. Sibelius drew inspiration in particular from Finnish nature and mythology. His impressive Symphony No. 2 combines all the strengths of his compositional style: power, solemn pathos, a connection to nature, and once again his ability to let gripping musical images blossom from small motifs. In striking contrast, Carl Nielsen’s Flute Concerto, composed in 1926, is almost entirely imbued with a cheerful, idyllic mood and airy transparency.

In Germany—although he was born and raised there—Friedrich Kuhlau is known at best as the composer of pleasant piano sonatas. In Denmark, however, he is regarded as the pioneer of Danish National Romanticism. Fleeing military service as a young man, he arrived in the country, where his incidental music for the drama Elverhøj (English: The Elves' Hill), premiered in 1828, has ensured him lasting success to this day. By drawing on Danish folklore, old folk songs, and melodies, Kuhlau introduced the “Nordic” tone to art music for the first time and was, not least, an important source of inspiration for the Danish composers Nils Gade and Emil Hartmann, who ultimately brought his principle to international prominence.