Symphony No. 6 in D minor, Op. 104: Full Orchestra, Ensemble Works, Conductor Score & Parts

Jean Sibelius (1865-1957) composed his SYMPHONY No. 6 in D minor, Op. 104 between 1918 and 1923, a period marked by political upheaval in Finland following its independence from Russia and by the composer's own evolving musical language. Premiered in Helsinki in February 1923 under Sibelius's baton, the symphony was described by the composer as offering "pure, cold spring water" in contrast to the heavy, sweetened concoctions of his contemporaries. Eschewing overt nationalism and grand Romantic gestures, Sibelius instead embraced a spare, modal sound world that reflects both Renaissance polyphony and his deep affinity for nature. Although overshadowed in popularity by his Second and Fifth Symphonies, the Sixth has come to be admired for its austere beauty, clarity of form, and unique spiritual character, and it remains an essential part of the Sibelius canon, treasured by conductors and audiences for its quiet intensity and originality. Instrumentation: 2.2.2+1(BCl).2: 4.3.3.0: Timp: Hp: Str (9.8.7.6.5 in set). The parts are from the original 1924 edition while the score is taken from a 1981 revision. Reprint edition. An 11x14 oversized score is also available from the publisher.