Kullervo, Sibelius

Kullervo, Op. 7, is a suite of symphonic movements by the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. Although often referred to as a “choral symphony,” the work avoids traditional symphonic structure and its five movements constitute a set of related but independent tone poems. The third and fifth movements make use of a men’s chorus. The third, authorized by the composer for performance as an independent work, also calls for two soloists, a baritone and a mezzo-soprano. Based on the character of Kullervo in the epic poem Kalevala and using texts from that poem, the work premiered to critical acclaim on 28 April 1892 with Emmy Achté and Abraham Ojanperä as soloists and the composer conducting the chorus and orchestra of the Helsinki Orchestra Society, which was founded in that year.

Kullervo’s Curse by the Finnish painter Akseli Gallen-Kallela.

There are five movements, each representing a passage in the history of the life of Kullervo.
The first part, “Introduction”, which evokes the heroic sweep of the legendary Finnish setting, as well as the character Kullervo, who is a complex, tragic figure. Kullervo’s entire tribe is killed by Untamo apart from Kullervo’s mother, Untamala.
The second movement, “Kullervo’s Youth”, reflects the somber tone of Runos 31 through 33 of the Kalevala. Kullervo is marked for tragedy from birth onwards, and he spends his youth largely in slavery.
The third movement, “Kullervo and His Sister”, tells of Kullervo meeting a beggar-girl and her seduction without knowing or caring who she is. Afterward he realizes that she is his sister, and out of shame she commits suicide. The distraught Kullervo returns to his family to break the news.
The fourth movement, “Kullervo Goes to War”. Filled with revenge, Kullervo goes to war. His family try to stop him but cannot stop him on this fruitless path.
The final movement, “Kullervo’s Death”. Kullervo goes on and obtains from Ukko his magic broadsword, which he uses to exterminate Untamo and his tribe. On returning home he finds the dead bodies of his family. He then asks the sword if it will have his life. THe sword eagerly accepts, not caring whose life it takes as a weapon.
I find myself being very drawn to the music of Sibelius. The Finnish folkloric influences certainly add to the intrigue of his compositions. It is full of beauty and tragedy. This version is certainly helped by the voice of Johanna Rusanen (now Rusanen-Katano). I went to hear her at the Proms in August (this being the 150th anniversary of Sibelius) and she still sounds great in this part.