Both choristers and listeners will enjoy this melody; it is simple, famous and harmonic. It was reworked many times, in many languages, in many countries. Nicholas II of Russia began the russification of Finland by the end of the 19th century. It leaded to a patriotic movement which members took advantage of the celebration called “Press celebrations.” Sibelius composed the incidental music of “Six Tableaux Vivants,” in November 1899. The melody had to remind people of significant facts which happened in Finnish History. The musical climax is a symphonic poem different from its original context; it became famous worldwide with the title “Finlandia.” The piece became an unofficial anthem.
