Boulez A-Z: Bartók

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich and intricate world of Béla Bartók with this comprehensive collection, "Boulez A-Z: Bartók." Spanning an impressive 4 hours and 18 minutes, this album is a testament to the enduring genius of one of the 20th century's most influential composers. With 87 tracks, it offers an extensive journey through Bartók's diverse and innovative compositions, from orchestral pieces and concertos to dance suites and cantatas.

This album features a meticulous selection of Bartók's works, including iconic pieces like "The Miraculous Mandarin," "Music for Strings, Percussion & Celesta," and "The Wooden Prince." Each track showcases Bartók's unique blend of folk influences, modernist techniques, and profound musical insight, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

Pierre Boulez, a renowned conductor and interpreter of Bartók's music, brings his unparalleled expertise to this recording, ensuring that every note is performed with the utmost precision and artistic integrity. The collaboration between Boulez and Béla Bartók is a true celebration of musical mastery, offering listeners a deep and enriching experience.

Released on February 1, 2025, by Deutsche Grammophon, this album is a monumental tribute to Béla Bartók's legacy. Whether you're a seasoned fan of classical music or a newcomer to Bartók's works, this collection promises to captivate and inspire with its depth, complexity, and sheer musical brilliance.

February 1, 2025

℗ 2025 Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Béla Bartók

Béla Bartók, born in 1881 in Nagyszentmiklós, Hungary, was a towering figure in 20th-century music, renowned as a composer, pianist, and ethnomusicologist. His deep connection to Hungarian and Central European folk music infused his compositions with a unique and captivating flavor, making him one of Hungary's greatest composers alongside Franz Liszt. Bartók's prodigious talent was evident from a young age; by four, he could play forty tunes on the piano, and by five, he began formal piano lessons with his mother. His musical journey took him from his early studies in Pozsony to becoming a distinguished teacher at the Zeneakadémia. Bartók's extensive work in collecting and studying folk music from across Central Europe enriched his compositions, which span orchestral works, string quartets, piano solos, and vocal settings of folk songs. His legacy endures as one of the most significant contributors to classical and neoclassical music, celebrated for his innovative approach and deep cultural roots. Bartók passed away in New York in 1945, leaving behind a rich musical heritage that continues to inspire and enchant audiences worldwide.