Topic: Leevi Madetoja (1887-1947)

[Harry]

Madetoja of course, I have the Chandos releases, and some on Finlandia. In general I like this composer, but I have to listen to it again, for I am pretty sure that was a long time ago.

[vandermolen]

Try Symphony No 2 and 'Tragic scene and rapids shooting' if you have it.

[Dundonnell]

Having now had a chance to listen to the Symphonies Nos. 1 and 2 I can say that I prefer both to No.3. No.1 seems very much in thrall to Sibelius but No.2 is indeed a fine work and-I would reckon-probably Madetoja's masterpiece: a most impressive symphony(as Jeffrey said )

[schweitzeralan]

Perhaps the most important Finnish composer after Sibelius (whom he pre-deceased) I don't seem to recall much discussion on Madetoja. All three symphonies are excellent in my view as is the Ostrobothnians Suite. Petri Sakari and the Iceland Symphony Orchestra provide excellent performances on Chandos. Arvo Volmer (who recorded the Tubin symphonies) also has recorded a Madetoja series on Alba with the Oulu Symphony Orchestra. He is a composer whose music I often return to. It is full of atmosphere, is moving in places and has a real feel for nature.

Any other admirers of Madetoja?

Madetoja was fairly prolific, and I have many recordings of this Finnish master. I believe that his three symphonies are excellent.  the 2nd in particular is a masterpiece.  Influences for the most part are quite Sibelian, which is personally fine with me.