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	RAUTAVAARA, Einojuhani. Cantus Arcticus, Op 61 (Concerto for Birds and Orchestra); Piano Concerto No 1, Op 45; Symphony No 3, Op 20.   Laura Mikkola (piano), Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Hannu Lintu.   DDD [73' 32"]. Naxos 8.554147.
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		Einojuhani Rautavaara is one of Finland's most popular living composers. Although he has experimented with twelve-tone techniques, his music remains emotionally rooted in the tradition of the Romantic symphonists. His 'Third Symphony', written between 1959 and 1960, utilises a twelve tone row, however it is unashamedly tonal and its monumental architecture is at times reminiscent of Bruckner. Rautavaara's first piano concerto (1969) is another highly emotive work, which sounds like Rachmaninov with palm clusters. This is a work that could be a popular concert work, and should be programmed more frequently. I feel that the Cantus Arcticus (Concerto for birds and orchestra, 1972) is probably the least successful of the works on the disc. It combines taped bird song from the Arctic Circle with a live orchestra. The orchestral writing is effective, but I felt that the tape was an unnecessary intrusion. The performances are good, as is the recording quality. This is an enjoyable recording from a substantial but accessible contemporary composer. Reviewer Malcolm Galloway See also earlier review by David Wright	Reviewer Malcolm Galloway Reviews carry sales links but you can also purchase from: REVIEWS Index Chandos October September August July June May April March February January 1998
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