Search - Jean Sibelius, Leif Segerstam, Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra :: Sibelius: Symphonies Nos. 2 & 6

Highly enjoyable performances by Sibelius' orchestra

Ed Brickell | 12/18/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Helsinki Philharmonic premiered many of Sibelius' compositions, often conducted by Sibelius itself. How wonderful to listen to this new Sibelius symphony cycle, with Sibelius' orchestra now expertly led by Leif Segerstam! Contrary to what some might imagine with an idiosyncratic conducter like Segerstam, these are not radical reshapings of familiar works, but solidly conceived, vibrant, and masterfully paced performances. The sound, as one might expect from Ondine, is both warm and detailed, even slightly improved over the first installment in this series (Symphonies 1 and 7). All in all, 76 minutes of prime Sibelius and a definite front-runner for recordings of these masterworks. Give us symphonies 3-5 as soon as possible, please!"

Another fine installment in Segerstam's cycle

Santa Fe Listener | Santa Fe, NM USA | 11/07/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"It's much more economical to buy Leif Segerstam's complete Sibelius cycle in one box, especially used at Amazon Marketplace. But if you are picking them up one at a time, this pairing of Sym. #2 and #6 displays all the brightness, vitality, and unforced joy that one finds throughout. Although I keep reading that Segerstam is an eccentric condcutor, he seems straightforward to me in his general choice of tempo and dynamics. The difference comes in with his deep musicality and commitment to Sibelius.



Sym. #2 is the most popular of the seven symphonies, and frankly there's not much new to say. The ultra-clear sound from Ondine and the alert playing of the Helsinki Phil. woodwinds stand out. Otherwise, Segerstam's reading stands among many other fine ones -- I am partial to Bernstein with the NY Phil. (Sony). The sixth is at the opposite extreme, being the most obscure symphony by far. I can't claim to understand it, but Segerstam leads this music as if it posed no difficulties, which seems like the best way."