The Heart of Sibelius

Sibelius…a composer so synonymous with Finland that he even appeared on the country’s 100 markka bank note before the adoption of the Euro. Deeply admired by music lovers, his compositions are wonderful to beexperienced live in the concert hall. With rich, sweeping melodies and dynamic brass chorales, Sibelius’s Second Symphony vividly evokes the beauty of his native Finland. We open the program with a nature-inspired work from celebrated early American composer Mabel Daniels, a real pioneer in our nation’s musical history. Plus, we feature Spanish guitarist Juan Luis Nicolau with the beautiful Rodrigo Concerto, evoking the city of Aranjuez — celebrating the beauty and ease of Spanish culture.David Stewart Wiley, conductorJuan Luis Nicolau, guitarMabel Daniels: Deep Forest Op.34 No. 1 (RSO Premiere)Joaquin Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez (guitar & orchestra)Jean Sibelius: Symphony No. 2 Op. 43 in D Major