The Piano music of Jean Sibelius ranks among the greatest of Finnish music, and his 1924 set Five Charactereistic Impressions demonstrates his importance.

The first of this set, The Village Church is a ceremonialtheme bringing to mind the oaccasions and events that surround a small place of worship and that is perfect for ushering in the start of a programme. An impressionist piece that captures the imagery of reality with tonality, colour and a solemn pace.