From the Forest of Saariselka

From the Forest of Saariselka - Tone Poem for Wind Ensemble (2005)
Commissioned by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force Chubu Band, Saariselka is a village in a mountainous area of northern Finland famous for its northern lights (aurora). This tone poem captures the romantic beauty of a nearby forest.
The beginning depicts an intense cold world. A beautiful horn melody, woodwind solos and sparkling glockenspiel arpeggios render a vivid impression. A quick tutti climax introduces fast action underscoring the image of the frigid weather as well as the effects of a severe blizzard and violent wind. As the musical drive intensifies, a resounding brass fanfare shifts the pace to the middle section.
A lush, romantic interlude reveals the grandeur of the northern lights floating in the tranquil sky. The alluring melody suggests the haunting beauty of Sibelius’ Finlandia. Then enters a rollicking 6/8 recapitulation that ultimately combines all of the central themes into a grand tutti conclusion. (Hiroki Takahashi)

World Parts Download