Birtwistle: Secret Theatre; Tragoedia; Five Distances; 3 Settings of Celan

Album Description

Dive into the intricate and powerful world of Harrison Birtwistle with this compelling 1995 release, a masterclass in contemporary classical composition. This album showcases Birtwistle's distinctive voice, blending rigorous structuralism with raw, visceral expression. The centerpiece, "Tragoedia," is a seminal work that established Birtwistle as a force to be reckoned with in the musical world. Its aggressive, block-like structure and immediate impact make it a standout piece in his repertoire.

The album also features "Secret Theatre," another of Birtwistle's finest compositions, known for its complex textures and innovative use of instrumentation. "Five Distances for Five Instruments" offers a more intimate exploration, while "3 Settings of Celan" provides a poignant and reflective counterpoint, with settings of poems by Paul Celan.

Conducted by the legendary Pierre Boulez and performed by the Ensemble InterContemporain, this recording benefits from some of the finest interpreters of contemporary music. The album's duration of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes offers a substantial journey through Birtwistle's unique sonic landscape, making it an essential addition to any discerning music lover's collection. The album was released on Deutsche Grammophon, a label renowned for its high-quality productions.

1 januari 1995

This Compilation ℗ 1995 Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Harrison Birtwistle

Sir Harrison Birtwistle, a titan of contemporary classical music, is renowned for his powerful and innovative compositions, particularly his operas that delve into mythological realms. Born in England, Birtwistle's works are celebrated for their theatricality, even when not explicitly staged. His notable compositions include "The Triumph of Time," and the operas "The Mask of Orpheus," "Gawain," and "The Minotaur," the latter of which was hailed by critics as one of the 21st century's finest pieces. Birtwistle's bold and dramatic style was famously showcased during the BBC's Last Night of the Proms with his saxophone concerto "Panic," an event that garnered national attention. His extensive accolades include numerous international awards and honorary degrees, cementing his legacy as a master composer.