Erkki Melartin (Feb. 7, 1875 - Feb. 14, 1937) was a Finnish composer, conductor, and teacher. He studied in Helsinki fro 1893 to 1899 with Martin Wegelius, and with Robert Fuchs,in Vienna, from 1899 to 1901

In addition to composing, Melartin taught and conducted at the Helsinki Conservatory. He traveled quite a bit for conducting, and was the first to conduct Gustav Mahler's music in Scandinavia. As a composer, he produced music of various instrumentations and genres, including several symphonies, and was influenced strongly by Gustav Mahler. In addition to symphonies, he wrote several chamber music works, including his String Trio. Written in 1927, this four movement work clocks in around 17 minutes, and is very much a mature, well developed piece. The first movement starts off with a theme that has a colorful line, and repeats itself before really opening up with rich harmonies, and lines that meld together so well. In addition to its richness, there are some moments of delicacy that make the richness stand out even more. All three parts are equally important in this piece. The second movement is somber; unsurprising as it's marked andante funebre. Though there are only three parts, Melartin's writing makes the ensemble sound much more full bodied. The Presto third movement breaks the heaviness, though there is still a lingering brooding mood. The fourth movement, Vivace, is driving and adventurous, and the tonalities while Romantic, teeter on the fence of being post-Romantic. It's a fascinating work, filled with rich and interesting harmonies, a thick sound, and lush lines throughout!

Sadly, we couldn't find a recording of this wonderful work. We hope that changes one day soon!