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Donald Macleod explores the life and work of Carl Nielsen, Denmark's best-known composer.

Six years before he died in 1931, Nielsen's sixtieth birthday was declared a national holiday in Denmark. The festivities held in his honour demonstrated the esteem with which he was held in his native land. But disillusionment with his lack of international success clouded his final years.

Donald introduces some of Nielsen's works from those years, including his witty flute concerto, part of his final symphony and an evocation of a voyage to the Faeroe Islands.

Piano Music for Young and Old No 7
Martin Roscoe (piano)
Hyperion CDA67591-2 CD1 Tr 14

Three Pieces (No 3)
Martin Roscoe (piano)
Hyperion CDA67591-2 CD2 Tr 25

A Fantasy Journey to the Faroes
Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra
Neeme Jarvi (conductor)
DG 447757-2 Tr 4

Flute Concerto
Gareth Davies (flute)
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra
Kees Bakels (conductor)
Naxos 8.554189 Trs 5-6

Three Motets (No 3)
Danish National Radio Chamber Choir
Stefan Parkman (conductor)
Chandos CHAN 8853 Tr 6

Symphony No 6 (4th mvt)
Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra
Jukka-Pekka Saraste (conductor)
Finlandia 3984-29714-2 Tr 8.