Aulis Sallinen is a distinguished Finnish composer, born on April 9, 1935, in Salmi, Finland. Trained at the Sibelius Academy, he has been a central figure in the Finnish music scene since the latter half of the 20th century, known for a style that skilfully balances modernist and traditional elements. Sallinen's oeuvre is expansive, encompassing operas, symphonies, chamber works, and concertos, all marked by a profound depth and a distinctive use of melody and texture.

Sallinen achieved international recognition through his compelling operatic compositions, with works such as "The King Goes Forth to France" (Kuningas lähtee Ranskaan), which cleverly weaves historical narrative with contemporary relevance. His symphonic catalogue, featuring eight symphonies and a range of overtures and concertos, showcases his mastery in orchestral color and structure. The Cello Concerto Op. 44 and Symphony No. 6 stand as testament to his ability to create expressive, powerful music that resonates well beyond the borders of Finland. In addition to his large-scale compositions, Sallinen's chamber music—such as the Piano Trio, Op. 96, and his works for string orchestra—reveals a more introspective yet equally passionate side of his musical personality. With numerous recordings of his works, Aulis Sallinen remains a significant voice in the landscape of contemporary classical music.

Genres

Early Modern Classical

Finnish Classical

Finnish Contemporary Classical

Related Artists

Karl-Birger Blomdahl

Joonas Kokkonen

Paavo Heininen

Hans Pfitzner

Kalevi Aho

Aarre Merikanto

Ture Rangström

Vagn Holmboe

Einojuhani Rautavaara

Eduard Tubin

Pehr Henrik Nordgren

Leif Segerstam

Latest Release

Sallinen: Piano Trio, Op. 96, Cello Sonata, Op. 86 & From a Swan Song, Op. 67

Aulis Sallinen•

Ralf Gothoni

Ep - 6 Tracks - Released February 3, 2015