Jean Sibelius

Kukkasarja op. 85

This new, beautiful edition is based on material in the complete critical edition of Sibelius's works. The Flower Suite is an elegant Sibelius opus for piano. Like the trees, the flowers in the garden of Ainola, his home, also spoke to him. Bellis (The Daisy) is a virtuoso cameo on the piano's white keys. Oeillet (The Carnation) is a step more complex in form; the key of this waltzing bouquet switches from major to minor and culminates in dramatic hues. Iris is more restrained, but technically challenging with its runs and trills. The most popular item in the set is the enchanting Aquileja (The Columbine), a rewarding piece for the pianist in a style reminiscent of Schumann. Campanula (The Bellflower), marked by arpeggios and appoggiaturas, ends the suite in an enigmatically mournful mood.