The composition of the symphony was influenced by the September 11 attacks , which occurred late in the writing process . Sallinen wrote , " The title '' Autumnal Fragments '' refers not only to the age of the composer , but also the tragic events of September 11 . That is why the finale turned out to be different from my original design . " The work is scored for a large orchestra consisting of four flutes ( 3rd and 4th doubling piccolo ) , three oboes , three clarinets ( 4th doubling bass clarinet ) , three bassoons ( 3rd doubling contrabassoon ) , four horns , three trumpets , three trombones , tuba , timpani , four percussionists , harp , and strings
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
Symphony No. 8 (Sallinen)