The Inextinguishable Carl Nielsen

Once quite popular, then nearly forgotten, Carl Nielsen’s music is enjoying a comeback on today’s orchestral scene. As more and more conductors consistently program

his music, orchestras and audiences alike are taking another listen to this composer’s unique and endearing style.

A native of Denmark, he has long been considered that nation’s favorite musical son, and like many Scandinavian composers of his era, Nielsen combined a unique sense of melody and drama with a penchant for raw orchestral power and bombast. Among Nielsen’s most admired works are his six symphonies, and three concertos (The Phoenix Symphony performed his too-long neglected Violin Concerto last season).

His Symphony No. 4, “The Inextinguishable,” which we will hear on this weekend’s Classics concerts, is perhaps his best-known work, and a characteristic piece to get acquainted with his dramatic, larger-than-life music.