Leevi Madetoja (1887–1947) was a Finnish composer, conductor, and music critic, best known for his symphonies and orchestral works, which reflect both the influence of Jean Sibelius and the folk traditions of his native Ostrobothnia. Born in Oulu, Madetoja studied at the Helsinki Music Institute under Sibelius and later continued his education in Paris and Berlin, where he absorbed French and German musical styles. His music is characterized by a refined lyricism, clear orchestration, and a melancholic Nordic atmosphere, distinguishing him from the more overtly nationalistic composers of his time.

Among Madetoja’s most significant works are his three symphonies, particularly the Symphony No. 2 (1918), which is often regarded as one of Finland’s finest symphonic achievements. His opera The Ostrobothnians (1924), based on Finnish folk tales, became a national treasure and remains his most frequently performed stage work. Madetoja also composed chamber music, piano pieces, and choral works, all marked by a subtle expressiveness and a strong sense of structure. Despite his achievements, his music was somewhat overshadowed by Sibelius, and he struggled for wider recognition beyond Finland.

Later in life, Madetoja faced personal and professional difficulties, including the destruction of his Symphony No. 4 manuscript, which he never rewrote. His declining health and the changing musical landscape of the mid-20th century further limited his influence. He died in Helsinki in 1947, leaving behind a body of work that, though sometimes overlooked, continues to be admired for its craftsmanship and emotional depth. Today, Madetoja is increasingly recognized as an important voice in Finnish music, with renewed interest in his symphonies and opera ensuring his place in the repertoire.