Day of Finnish Music is observed in Finland every December 8, commemorating the birth anniversary of Jean Sibelius, a significant Finnish composer born in 1865. This day celebrates Sibelius's profound influence on the formation of Finnish national identity through his music. He was a prolific composer, creating seven symphonies, numerous orchestral pieces, and over 100 songs for voice and piano, with notable works inspired by the Finnish national epic, the Kalevala. One of his most famous compositions is the vocal symphony Kullervo, and his Finlandia Hymn is regarded as one of Finland's important national songs. Although not a legal flag day, the Finnish flag is traditionally flown to honor Sibelius and his contributions to the country's musical culture.