Saariaho: Laterna Magica for large orchestra

This new release features the much-awaited première recording of Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho’s first clarinet concerto D’OM LE VRAI SENS.

Kaija Saariaho (b. 1952) is one of the internationally leading composers of today, and the 2011–12 Composer-in-Residence at New York’s Carnegie Hall.

In the composer’s words, “the general idea of this piece is based on the famous medieval tapestries called La Dame à la Licorne [displayed at the Musée de Cluny in Paris]. The subject matter is the five senses and the ‘sixth sense.’”

Featuring star clarinetist Kari Kriikku, this recording brings together several of Finland’s finest ambassadors of music. Kriikku has inspired many other native composers to write concertos for him, subsequently recorded for Ondine: Magnus Lindberg (ODE 1038-2: 2006 BBC Music Magazine Award & Classic FM Gramophone Award), Uljas Pulkkis, Jukka Tiensuu, Kimmo Hakola, and Jouni Kaipainen.

The Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, here led by its chief conductor Sakari Oramo, performed the acclaimed world première performance in September 2010.

Also included are the 20-minute orchestral piece Laterna Magica co-commissioned by Stiftung Berliner Philharmoniker and Lucerne Festival, and a cycle of four Leino Songs, written for the acclaimed soprano Anu Komsi.