https://www.tierolff.nl/en/from-the-forest-of-saariselka.html
Commissioned by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force Chubu Band, Saariselkä is a village in a mountainous area of northern Finland, famous for its northern lights (aurora). This tone poem captures the romantic beauty of a nearby forest.
The beginning depicts an intense cold world. A beautiful horn melody, woodwind solos and sparkling glockenspiel arpeggios render a vivid impression. A quick tutti climax introduces fast action underscoring the image of the frigid weather as well as the effects of a severe blizzard and violent wind. As the musical drive intensifies, a resounding brass fanfare shifts the pace to the middle section.
A lush, romantic interlude reveals the grandeur of the northern lights floating in the tranquil sky. The alluring melody suggests the haunting beauty of Sibelius’ Finlandia. Then enters a rollicking 6/8 recapitulation that ultimately combines all of the central themes into a grand tutti conclusion.
For more information:
https://www.tierolff.nl/en/from-the-forest-of-saariselka.html