BBC Music Magazine 5 stars; Le Monde de la Musique: Choc; Penguin Guide 3 stars. This album features Sinfonia Lahti, conducted by Osmo Vänskä, performing Jean Sibelius's "Lemminkäinen Suite," Op. 22. The suite is a significant work inspired by the Finnish national epic, the Kalevala, and it vividly portrays the adventures of the hero Lemminkäinen. Sinfonia Lahti Established in 1949, Sinfonia Lahti has developed into one of the Nordic countries' leading orchestras. Under the direction of Osmo Vänskä since 1988, the orchestra has achieved international recognition for its performances and recordings, particularly of works by Sibelius. Osmo Vänskä Osmo Vänskä, a distinguished conductor, began his career as a clarinetist and later studied conducting at the Sibelius Academy. He has led Sinfonia Lahti to numerous accolades and is renowned for his interpretations of both classical and contemporary music. The Lemminkäinen Suite Composed between 1895 and 1896, the Lemminkäinen Suite consists of four movements: 1. Lemminkäinen and the Maidens of the Island - Depicts Lemminkäinen’s romantic escapades. 2. The Swan of Tuonela - Features the haunting English horn melody, representing the mystical swan. 3. Lemminkäinen in Tuonela - Illustrates Lemminkäinen’s journey into the underworld. 4. Lemminkäinen’s Homeward Journey - Concludes the suite with his triumphant return home. This recording includes both the final and original versions of the movements, offering insight into Sibelius's creative process. --- The cover art features Akseli Gallen-Kallela’s painting "Lemminkäinen and the Maidens of the Island" (c. 1916), reflecting the epic themes of the music. Enjoy this exploration of Finland's rich mythological landscape through Sibelius's masterful composition.