Sallinen, Aulis (1935- )

Finnish composer. He is best known for the strong characterization and sustained dramatic intensity of his operas.

He studied at the Sibelius Academy, Helsinki, and taught there 1963-76. He was the manager of Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra 1960-70.

Works Opera and stage The Horseman (1975), The Red Line (1978), The King goes forth to France (1984), Kullervo (1992); the ballet Variations sur Mallarmé (1968).

Orchestral six symphonies (1971-90), Mauermusik for a German killed at Berlin Wall (1962), Metamorphoses for piano and chamber orchestra (1964), violin concerto (1968), cello concerto (1978), Dies Irae for soprano, bass, male chorus, and orchestra (1978); Chorali for wind, percussion, harp, and celesta (1970).

Chamber five string quartets (1958-82).