Allegro, cut time.

Birch, like poplar and fir, is one of the trees commonly found in Finland, and can also be seen in Japan, for example, in Hokkaido. As its name suggests, it is a tree with a beautiful white trunk. In May Day celebrations, which mark the arrival of spring in Finland and various parts of Europe, birch trees are adorned with colorful ribbons for Maypole dances, indicating their deep roots in the lives of Europeans.

This piece, the fastest in the suite, vividly and dynamically depicts the beautiful and graceful birch trees. The first half begins with Allegro in E-flat major (three flats), but as it approaches the latter half, it transitions to B-flat major with five flats and becomes Misterioso. In the latter half, arpeggiated eighth notes are repeatedly played pianissimo, creating a highly mysterious melody.