Symphony No. 3 (Rautavaara)

Einojuhani Rautavaara's Symphony No. 3 is a work for orchestra composed in 1961. It marks a pivotal point in Rautavaara's development as a composer, signaling a departure from his earlier neo-classical style towards a more individual and often mystical sound world. The symphony is typically described as being in four movements, although the structural characteristics of these movements are not always traditionally symphonic.

The first movement, often described as Pesante, features dense, dissonant textures and a sense of brooding intensity. The second movement, Vivace, provides a stark contrast, characterized by energetic, rhythmic figures and a generally brighter mood. The third movement, Adagio, is perhaps the most well-known and admired. It's notable for its lyrical beauty and the use of extended string textures, often incorporating elements of atonality while maintaining a sense of profound emotion. The final movement, Allegro, returns to a more driving and assertive character, bringing the symphony to a powerful conclusion.

While initially met with mixed reviews, Symphony No. 3 is now recognized as a significant work in Rautavaara's oeuvre and a notable contribution to the 20th-century symphonic repertoire. It showcases the composer's evolving harmonic language and his increasing interest in exploring complex orchestral textures and evocative soundscapes.