Oma maa (My Own Land), Op.92, for mixed chorus and orchestra (Text: Kallio (Samuel Gustaf Bergh))

Sibelius: Oma maa (My own Land), for mixed chorus and orchestra. Text: Kallio (Samuel Gustaf Bergh). Undertaken by the composer during a difficult chapter in Finland’s history - the civil war which broke out shortly after the declaration of independence in 1917 - the underlying character of the work is one of serenity and optimism - so far removed from the upheavals of the civil war that, with hindsight, it is easy to interpret the work as portending - or at least aspiring towards - a more peaceful future.

Classics Today 10/10, highest rating: 'This extremely enjoyable disc should command your immediate attention'; Music Web International: outstanding.