infinitipo

True, I can understand that being the case with most other late-romantic composers. Sibelius, however, should be something of an exception. Compared to Mahler, Sibelius' orchestra is tiny and his symphonies rarely exceed a forty-five minutes in length (most average about thirty minutes total, and his tone poems half even of that). Ah well. Either way I always classified Sibelius as a "modern" composer rather than late-romantic, though many will argue about this. In addition to practically creating Finland's musical voice, he helped expand the concept of the symphony and the organic development of (often highly condensed) themes. I'd say he's had more of an influence on my composing than more contemporary composers such as Stravinsky, Shostakovich, or Glass/Adams. Of course, it could just be the Finnish blood in me. ;)

Nice list here, but.... :o :) Just where exactly is Jean Sibelius? Seriously now, people, I just stumbled upon this awesome forum and am frightened by the lack of love for (or perhaps interest in?) the great Finnish composer. I listen to more of Sibelius' works than any other composer on that list--including the "masters"--and i've collected the scores of most of his tone poems and symphonies (which are all fantastic and highly original, but also approachable). Imho, the emotion and organic logic one hears in a single sibelius symphony (No. 7 :excl: ) blows the works of most other composers out of the water. :) All right I've finished my rant, carry on. :P