In Celebration of the Human Voice - The Essential Musical Instrument

Jussi Chydenius

Born: 1972. Living in: Helsinki, Finland.
Jussi Chydenius is a Finnish composer who combines a traditional choral sound with influences from pop and jazz to create works that are fresh, vibrant, and accessible. His interest in popular musical styles stems from his experience as a drummer in various bands, including the platinum-selling rock group Don Huonot, and he is best known as the bass singer and composer in the a cappella sextet Rajaton. Chydenius has published a number of acclaimed choral works, which are performed by choirs and vocal ensembles throughout Europe and North America.

Member of: Rajaton - Bass - Founder

Jussi Chydenius and Bob Chilcott : Sun, Moon, Sea, and Stars

Drawing together two composers long associated with contemporary vocal music, Sun, Moon, Sea, and Stars presents eight original and exciting pieces by Bob Chilcott and Jussi Chydenius (of Rajaton fame). Setting celebrated American and English poetry, as well as specially-written texts by Chilcott, this collection examines themes of nature, the elements, eternity, and love. The timeless character of the words is explored through a wide range of popular musical styles, including rock grooves, reflective ballads, and exuberant encores. With a cappella and accompanied pieces, optional bass and drum kit parts, and a variety of SATB textures, Sun, Moon, Sea, and Stars provides an array of compelling concert material for today's audiences.

Songlist: Come back!, Tonight, My Heart's Friend, Deep in the night, Sun, Moon, Sea, and Stars, On a Windy Day, She walks in beauty, The Sound of the Sea

Individual Folios

Displaying 1-5 of 5 items.

Jussi Chydenius : Autumn

Setting a text by Walter de la Mare, this tuneful, rhythmic choral work is infused with Scandinavian style. The poem is accompanied by extensive use of scat, giving a modern twist to the forlorn sentiments of the text. An ideal concert work for experienced choirs looking for something a little different.

Performed By: Rajaton

Jussi Chydenius : Deep in the night

Originally published in Sun, Moon, Sea, and Stars, this piece sets a poem by Sara Teasdale that likens a heart seeking its love to a swallow's cry. Chydenius's rich harmonies, syncopated melodies, and modal inflections paint an image of the starry night, while the underpinning bass ostinato provides rhythmic drive.

Poetry By: Sara Teasdale Performed By: Rajaton

Jussi Chydenius : I am the great sun

Displaying Chydenius's unique style, I am the great sun is a driven and focused setting of Charles Causley's poem. This is textured choral writing: you'll find imitative passages, melodic and rhythmic motifs, sections requiring precise articulation, and full homophonic climaxes. An exciting challenge for established choirs!

Performed By: Rajaton

Jussi Chydenius : The Kiss

Exhibiting Chydenius's unique style, this contemplative ballad sets a wistful text by American lyrical poet Sara Teasdale. The close harmonies, persuasive melodies, and appealing syncopations in the voices are underpinned by a stylistic piano part with a rhythmic chord pattern that creates a sense of build and drive. The Kiss is ideal for upper-voice choirs looking for an evocative concert piece.

Poetry By: Sara Teasdale Performed By: Rajaton

Jussi Chydenius : The Look

The quirky style of The Look perfectly complements the nature of Sara Teasdale's poem, which reminisces on past romances. The melody is catchy and colourful, with a stylistic ornament that gives the piece a carefree feel, and there are effective contrasts of tonality and texture. The voices are accompanied by a jazzy, characterful piano part with driving syncopations.

Poetry By: Sara Teasdale Performed By: Rajaton