“Music is NOT that which sounds. Music is WHY that which sounds, sounds like it sounds – WHEN it sounds”.

The above quote by legendary Finnish conductor and larger-than-life composer Leif Segerstam neatly and – in typical Segerstam fashion – cryptically summarises his philosophy on music, as wells as his unique approach to why music matters. It was felt by and intrigued anyone who was lucky enough to work with him, and it fuelled every aspect of his work in Aarhus, first as principal guest conductor (2018-21) and later honorary conductor (2021-22) for the Aarhus Symphony Orchestra. It is also evident in the recordings you have before you, the last ones made before his passing in October 2024.

“This man has more music in his little finger than many conductors have in their whole body” is a popular quote by one of the orchestra’s musicians, and it aptly describes the feelings of electricity and passion that ran through rehearsals with Leif.

There is no doubt that music was everything – and in everything – of Segerstam’s life.