Finns shocked at symphonist’s death

A contemporary of Magnus Lindberg and Esa-Pekka Salonen, the composer Jouni Kaipainen died this morning, a day before his 59th birthday, after a long illness.

He leaves 4 symphonies, 9 concertos and 7 string quartets, a legacy that is widely respected across the Nordic lands.

The conductor Hannu Lintu writes: Jouni was a true artist with deep understanding of human nature and respect for tradition. His musical intelligence, imagination, ear and technique were unique. I knew him from the very beginning of my career and could always trust his support and opinions. There was and will always be something to learn from his scores, texts and thoughts. Thanks for your music. Sleep well, my friend.

Esa-Pekka Salonen tweets: Finland has lost one of its best composers. I have lost a dear friend. It’s up to us now to keep his legacy alive. R.I.P. Jouni Kaipainen