This album features piano music by Finnish composers Toivo Kuula and Oskar Merikanto, performed by Eero Heinonen. Kuula, a student of Sibelius, blends Finnish folk influences with late Romantic and impressionist elements, while Merikanto, known for his lyrical miniatures, contributed significantly to Finnish national music.
Kuula’s *Three Fairy-Tale Pictures, Op. 19* depict mythical and nature-inspired scenes, with influences from Aleksis Kivi’s *Seven Brothers* and Kuula’s own storytelling. His *Three Pieces, Op. 3b* include the deeply expressive *Elegy*, the triumphant *Wedding March*, and the charming *Little Gavotte*.
Merikanto’s *From the World of Children, Op. 31* is a set of short character pieces capturing the innocence and imagination of childhood, with titles such as *The Train Flies By*, *The Boys’ War March*, and *Grandma’s Story*. These works balance technical simplicity with strong melodic and emotional appeal.
This recording highlights the rich expressiveness of Finnish piano music, from folk-inspired melodies to Romantic pathos, offering a captivating glimpse into the country's musical heritage.
