Sibelius’s funeral

Jean Sibelius died on 20th September 1957 and was buried ten days later. On 30th September 1957. Tauno Hannikainen conducted the funeral music, which naturally included works by the maestro, such as The Tempest (three movements), The Swan of Tuonela and In memoriam.

The orchestra still uses the parts used at the funeral, and they can be found in the HPO music library complete with the markings made in them by the players on that occasion. Such as the note written by the HPO’s legendary horn player Holger Fransman: “Jean Sibelius. Funeral service at the Cathedral 30.IX.1957.”

Sources: Einari Marvia & Matti Vainio - Helsingin kaupunginorkesteri 1882-1982 & HPO's archive and notes 
Picture: HPO's archive