Einar Englund - Symphony no. 3 (1/4) "Barbarossa"

Einar Englund (1916-1999)

Symphony No. 3 "Barbarossa" (1971)

1. Maestoso - Allegro ritmico

Tampere Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Ari Rasilainen

Englund was born in Ljugarn, and studied with Bengt Carlson at the Sibelius Academy. On a recommendation from Sibelius, possibly on the basis of his piano quintet he continued his studies with Aaron Copland at Tanglewood. He fought in World War II as an infantry sergeant and was wounded, and it was an experience which inspired at least some of his earlier works. The influence of Shostakovich was very important throughout his career. In the 1960s he was so disgusted with the serial onslaught that he stopped composing for many years. In 1971 he returned to the scene with his masterful Third Symphony. He composed four more symphonies, concertos and much fine chamber music. His last works were a Concerto for Flute (1985) and a Concerto for Clarinet (1991). He wrote his biography following this, In the Shadow of Sibelius. He died in 1999, in Visby.

He gained tumultous acclaim for his first two symphonies, but his fame was soon to be eclipsed by that of Sibelius, and he has still remained a somewhat neglected composer, in spite of the quality of his music. Most of the neglect stemmed from his contempt for the serial school and the de-humanizing of music. Since his death more recordings and performances have come forth including a marvelous Ondine series of all seven symphonies and both piano concertos.

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[darioeuphonium]

Excellent Symphony. Seems to me it has a bit of Shostakovich's music. :-).

[bartje11]

@darioeuphonium Yes, but this symphony, and especially this movement has a poignancy and elegance which is totally strange to the Shostakovitch Symphonies. I branded this movement as the highlight of symphonic writing after WWII. But who am I to say that? Well it is my channel and up-load, so I can say it! Thanks for you commenting!

[darioeuphonium]

@bartje11 Yes, you've right. A nordic poignancy in my opinion, we could say or better still define Englund "The Nordic Shostakovich". :-).

[dodgeballdude27]

Another great, but neglected composer I have been exposed to by you bartje...many thanks!

[Ear4Beauty]

Very Nice. Thanks.