Arnulf Herrmann: Wasser

Arnulf Herrmann's "Wasser" is a captivating musical journey that premiered at the 2012 Munich Biennale, marking the composer's debut into the world of opera. This 13-scene Musiktheater is a collaboration with librettist Nico Bleutge and features the renowned Ensemble Modern, along with the Schola Heidelberg. The album, released on January 1, 2012, under Ensemble Modern Medien, spans 58 minutes of immersive soundscapes that explore the theme of water in all its facets.

From the gentle, dreamlike "Wasser: Traum 1/ Eröffnung" to the dynamic "Wasser: Tanz" and the intricate "Wasser: Spirale," Herrmann's composition is a testament to his innovative approach to contemporary classical music. The album's standout tracks, such as the soothing "Wasser: Seestück" and the rhythmic "Wasser: Wassermusik 1," showcase Herrmann's ability to blend lyrical melodies with complex, modernist structures. The recurring motifs and variations in pieces like "Wasser: Einfaches Lied 1" and "Wasser: Einfaches Lied 2" add a sense of cohesion and depth to the work.

Herrmann's "Wasser" is not just an opera but a multifaceted exploration of sound, text, and performance. The album captures the essence of this groundbreaking production, offering listeners a unique opportunity to experience Herrmann's visionary composition. Whether you're a fan of contemporary classical music or simply curious about the evolving landscape of modern opera, "Wasser" is an essential addition to your collection.