This captivating album presents a unique blend of late Romantic masterpieces, featuring the profound works of Johannes Brahms and Gustav Mahler. At the heart of the album is Brahms' "Alto Rhapsody, Op. 53," a deeply expressive piece composed in 1869, which sets three stanzas from Goethe's "Harzreise im Winter." This work showcases Brahms' mastery of orchestration and his ability to convey profound human experiences through music.
Complementing Brahms' work is Mahler's monumental "Das Lied von der Erde," a symphonic song cycle that explores themes of life, love, and mortality. This work, though not composed by Brahms, is a fitting counterpart, offering a rich tapestry of orchestral colors and vocal drama.
The album features the renowned contralto Kathleen Ferrier, whose powerful and nuanced performances bring these works to life. Accompanied by the Oslo Filharmoniske Kor and a full orchestra, the recording captures the grandeur and intimacy of these compositions. The album, released in 2003 by Regis Records, spans approximately 76 minutes, providing a comprehensive and immersive listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding exploration of some of the most profound works in the classical repertoire.
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