Axel Borup-Jørgensen: Viola Works

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Axel Borup-Jørgensen's "Viola Works," a stunning collection of compositions that showcase the evolution of this remarkable Danish composer. Released in 2016 on the Dacapo label, this album spans a little over an hour and features 17 tracks that highlight the versatility and depth of Borup-Jørgensen's musical genius.

The album is a testament to Borup-Jørgensen's growth as a composer, with pieces that range from the lyrical and accessible "Duo for Violin and Viola, Op. 12" to the more complex and intricate "Mobiles After Alexander Calder, Op. 38." Each track is performed with exquisite skill by a talented ensemble of musicians, including Anette Slaatto on viola, Christina Bjørkøe on piano, and members of the EKKOZONE ensemble.

From the soothing "Partita, Op. 15" to the energetic "Viola Sonata, Op. 14," this album offers a diverse and engaging listening experience. The "Music for Percussion & Viola, Op. 18" and "O Bäume Lebens, Op. 81" add a unique and captivating dimension to the collection, showcasing Borup-Jørgensen's ability to blend different instruments and styles seamlessly.

Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or simply looking to explore new sounds, "Viola Works" is an album that will leave a lasting impression. With its rich tapestry of compositions and exceptional performances, it's a true celebration of Axel Borup-Jørgensen's musical legacy.

5 februari 2016

2015 Dacapo

About Axel Borup-Jørgensen

Axel Borup-Jørgensen (1924-2012) was a Danish composer whose life and work were marked by a deep connection to nature and a unique musical voice. Born in Hjørring, Denmark, Borup-Jørgensen spent his formative years in Sweden, where his family moved when he was just two years old. This dual cultural upbringing significantly influenced his compositional style, which is characterized by its intense nature mysticism and distinctive modernist approach.

Borup-Jørgensen studied piano at the Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen and further honed his skills in instrumentation with notable figures like Poul Schierbeck and Jørgen Jersild. Despite his formal training, he considered himself largely self-taught as a composer, developing a personal style that often explored new sound possibilities and innovative ways of playing instruments.

His works are known for their vivid imagery, evoking everything from the skeletal outlines of barren trees to the tumultuous energy of a storm at sea. Borup-Jørgensen's meticulous approach to composition and his collaboration with instrumentalists who could bring his vision to life made his music both distinctive and deeply evocative.

Throughout his career, Borup-Jørgensen maintained a quiet yet prolific presence in the musical world, continuing to refine his craft until his passing in 2012. His legacy includes a rich body of work that spans various genres and forms, each piece a testament to his unique artistic vision and his enduring love for the natural world.