Opening with the broad Festive March Op. 13, Ondine’s latest release of music by Finnish composer Toivo Kuula presents orchestral works from a composer better known for his vocal writing. Though more solemn than ‘festive’, the expansive March places Kuula in the tradition of Sibelius, with whom he studied composition. Kuula’s orchestral offerings are unfortunately limited: the composer died young, killed in a fight during celebrations for the end of Finland’s Civil War. The first South Ostrobothnian Suite opens with chorale-like brass and winds underscored by motoring pizzicato strings. The cor anglais is the star of this movement, Landscape, Satu Ala’s tone liquid and tenebrous. The second movement, Folk Song, drips with Finnish melancholy while Ostrobothnian Dance is elegant and convivial. The third movement, Devil’s Dance, is bright and cheery and Song of Dusk is full of rich melody, once again featuring the cor anglais. South Ostrobothnian Suite No. 2 is the work of a more mature composer, but is very much a suite of convenience raher than musical unity – Kuula himself often performed the movements separately at concerts he conducted. The final movement, Will-o’-the-Wisp, opens with a treacley cello solo and is longer than all of the preceding movements combined….

Musical and culinary bash pays tribute to Mark Foy’s hedonistic vision.

Dean and Robertson’s brave new start to a brave new series.

A handful of Limelight critics are spoiled for choice picking their favourite recordings.

Stellar multimedia Messaien sees one art illuminate another.

A programme, playlist and festival dedicated to the works of females are announced, released and revealed.

The conductor who has led more Last Nights than any other will helm the Proms’ first ever sojourn outside of England. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in

The French virtuoso brings his unique perspective to the mighty Vingt Regards. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in

Throughout history there have always been, and there will always be, women composers.

David Robertson and Pierre-Laurent Aimard talk about Messiaen’s unique musical portrait of life, the universe and everything. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in

★★★★½ Dejan Lazić presents Ravel in remarkable performance with TSO. Continue reading Get unlimited digital access from $4 per month Subscribe Already a subscriber? Log in

Three Australian pianists are among 32 competitors vying for first prize at the Sydney International Piano Competition.