Fagerlund: Beneath

Sebastian Fagerlund is one of Finland's most renowned contemporary composers, creating works of vivid narrative power and emotional depth in the genres of orchestral, operatic, and chamber music. This recording features four works for various instrument combinations, which demonstrate Fagerlund's ability to interweave his compositions through strong spiritual and stylistic connections. "Beneath" for string orchestra operates in the tension between concerto and ensemble work. The solo violin – a "first among equals" – emerges from the orchestra and merges with it, tracing a journey from rising chord sequences through energetic passages to a calm resolution. "Remain," a piano trio completed on the day Russia invaded Ukraine, weaves quotes from Ravel, Bach, and Brahms into three emotionally charged movements dedicated to the people of Ukraine. "Materie," a solo piece for violin written for the Kuopio Violin Competition, combines technical brilliance with expressive nuances, unfolding in two powerful waves between contemplation and intensity. The finale, "Stilla" for violin and piano, moves from introspective exploration through energetic highlights to a hauntingly silent, mysterious conclusion. The violinist and conductor Malin Broman runs through all four works, appearing both as a soloist and as part of the Kungsbacka Piano Trio, while simultaneously conducting the Ostrobothnian Chamber Orchestra.