"The Northern idea of form is more of a process. The various units of the form overlap. You can't tell where some things stop and new things start. This is typical of Sibelius"
- Esa-Pekka Salonen
About this Quote
This quote by Esa-Pekka Salonen talks to the unique method to form taken by the Finnish author Jean Sibelius. Salonen suggests that the Northern concept of kind is more of a process than a stiff structure. Rather than having unique areas that are clearly defined, the numerous units of the kind overlap and blend together. It is difficult to inform where one section ends and the next begins. This approach to form is normal of Sibelius and is reflective of his special style.
Sibelius' technique to form is typically seen as a reflection of his Finnish identity. His music is frequently referred to as having a sense of liberty and fluidity, which is reflective of the natural beauty of his homeland. This quote by Salonen speaks with the distinct method to form taken by Sibelius, which is identified by a sense of liberty and fluidity. This approach to form is normal of Sibelius and is reflective of his distinct style.
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