Jean Sibelius

Symphony No. 1 in E minor (Op. 39)

Started in 1898, Jean Sibelius (1865-1957) completed and premiered his SYMPHONY No. 1 in E minor, Op. 39, the following year when only 33 years old. Dissatisfied with the original version, which has been lost, Sibelius quickly revised the work in 1900, and it is this version that is performed today. Starting with a contemplative clarinet solo over a timpani roll, this early work is characterized by the use of string and woodwind solos. Perhaps more lushly romantic than his later works, the work still showcases the structure and logic inherent in Sibelius' later works. Instrumentation: 2(dPicc).2.2.2: 4.3.3.1: Timp.Perc(2): Hp: Str (9-8-7-6-5 in set).