This third volume of orchestral music by Leevi Madetoja includes a couple of CD premieres, first among them the very substantial Symphonic Suite for Orchestra Op. 4. Its individual movements are quite attractive on their own, but when played consecutively they make for a very long haul (more than 33 minutes). It really wasn’t a very good idea to follow an Elegy with an extended Nocturne and then a Pastoral. The result lacks contrast and the attention begins to wander long before the finale. Still, it’s very pretty music in a cool but recognizably Romantic sort of way, as is the gentle Barcarola Op. 67/2 that follows. The most interesting work on the disc is the suite from the ballet Okon Fuoko, and although it has received many previous recordings, this one is as good as any. It would be very nice to hear the complete ballet, however. Excellent recorded sound and committed performances make a very good case for some neglected music, but it would be pointless to assert that these pieces represent the best way to get to know this worthy composer. If you’re new to Madetoja, by all means sample this series, but start with the Second or Third Symphonies, masterpieces both.
