A Sibelius deep dive conducted by Esa-Pekka Salonen: Finlandia is an anthem for a nascent nation still fighting for its very identity after a century of Russian rule. The Violin Concerto, here performed by Lisa Batiashvili, was a vehicle for Sibelius to channel all his virtuoso ambitions. The First Symphony would be Sibelius’ international breakthrough. With deft touches of Tchaikovsky and Berlioz, it’s easy to see why.
Salonen: All Sibelius

Esa-Pekka Salonen
Playlist
Jean Sibelius: Finlandia, Opus 26
Jean Sibelius: Violin Concerto in D minor, Opus 47
Lisa Batiashvili, violin
Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 1 in E minor, Opus 39

