Erkki Melartin, Violin Concerto (1913)
Slow Listening #10
Melartin is one of the many extraordinary Finnish composers who have been hidden behind Sibelius. Sibelius was only ten years older than Melartin, but those ten years made a big difference. By the time Melartin was producing his first pieces, Sibelius was established as the Finnish composer, and Melartin’s work was always in competition with his. When performance resources were limited, Melartin’s music was often passed over in favour of the more famous composer, widening the gap between them. ‘Sibelius is worshipped like an idol,’ Melartin wrote sadly in 1908.
I’m certain that had Melartin been a composer in any other time and place than Finland in the early twentieth century, he would be a far better-known name than he is now. When his work was performed, it usually got good reviews and was responded to favourably. This concerto was written between 1911 and 1913, and showcases Melartin’s flair for really beautiful melodic writing. It’s in three movements:
Allegro moderato
Andante assai tranquillo
Allegro molto vivace
Listening Prompt
What gives this concerto its fantasy atmosphere?
What place does this music make you think of?
Recommended Recording
Unbelievably, this concerto has only been recorded once. Once! So here is that recording.