Northern Horizons – Markus Maskuniitty

Throughout history, the open landscapes and mythical cultures of the Nordic countries have triggered the imagination of artists. Finnish horn player Markus Maskuniitty and pianist Martin Sturfält perform works which, although separated in time by more than a century, all draw their inspiration from these areas of interest. The compositions gathered here approach these Nordic themes from different angles, blending traditional folk influences with contemporary classical techniques whilst exploring the horn’s lyrical and dramatic capabilities and its rich sound palette. Recent compositions by Piers Hellawell, Tryggvi M Baldvinsson, Albert Schnelzer and Benjamin Staern are mixed with older works by Carl Nielsen, Hugo Alfvén and Julius Röntgen, including the latter’s Aus Jotunheim, a suite characterized by an irresistible Norwegian flavour throughout its five movements, quoting everything from cattle calls to lullabies with plenty of rustic folk dancing in between. This imaginative program designed by Maskuniity and Sturfält puts a spotlight on the unique character of the Nordic musical identity.