Johan Christian Julius “Jean” Sibelius (8.12. 1865 Hämeenlinna – 20.9. 1957 Järvenpää) was a Finnish composer of the late Romantic period. His national romantic music played an important role in the formation of Finland’s national identity. Sibelius is the most internationally known and performed Finnish composer.

Sibelius’ core ouevres are his seven symphonies. In addition to them, his most famous works include the violin concerto, Karelia Suite, Finlandia and the choral symphony Kullervo, where a significant part is written for a male voice choir. Sibelius also composed more than 30 a cappella male choir works, the first of which were specifically for YL Male Voice Choir.

With this edition of male choir songs by Jean Sibelius, YL continues its work of collecting and publishing works from the golden era of Finnish choral music. YL is greatly indebted to professor Fabian Dahlström, editor-in-chief of the critical edition of Sibelius’ music, for his invaluable assistance in the editing of these songs.