Chamber Works By Per Nørgård

Dive into the intricate world of Per Nørgård with his captivating album "Chamber Works By Per Nørgård." Released in 2014 under the CDklassisk label, this collection showcases the Danish composer's mastery of neoclassical and avant-garde genres. Spanning 57 minutes, the album features nine tracks that highlight Nørgård's unique musical language, inspired in part by the art of Adolf Wölfli.

Per Nørgård, born in 1932, is a prolific composer with over 300 works to his name, including six operas, eight symphonies, and a vast array of chamber music. His chamber works include ten string quartets and a significant body of guitar music. This album offers a glimpse into his later works, where his innovative approach to composition is evident.

The tracks on "Chamber Works By Per Nørgård" are a blend of whimsical and introspective pieces, each telling a story through its intricate melodies and harmonies. From the playful "Unendlicher Empfang" to the haunting "Spell," the album takes you on a journey through Nørgård's imaginative musical landscapes. The album also includes pieces inspired by Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," such as "It's All His Fancy, That" and "The Cheshire Cat Meets Its Grin," adding a layer of literary depth to the musical experience.

Whether you're a seasoned fan of neoclassical and avant-garde music or a newcomer looking to explore these genres, "Chamber Works By Per Nørgård" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The performances by Frode Stengaard, Martin Schuster, Niels-Ole Bo Johansen, and Ole Bo Johansen bring Nørgård's compositions to life with precision and passion.

Per Nørgård, a towering figure in Danish music, was a composer whose work spanned neoclassical and avant-garde genres, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape. Born in Gentofte in 1932, Nørgård's career was marked by a relentless exploration of sound, form, and tonality, earning him a reputation as one of Denmark's most significant composers. His music, often characterized by repeated motifs, reflects a deep sensitivity and strong personality that were evident even in his early works, such as his first solo cello sonata composed between the ages of 19 and 21. Nørgård's admirations ranged from the symphonies of Sibelius to the humor of South Park, a duality that found expression in his own compositions, blending the full force of nature with a playful wit. Throughout his prolific career, Nørgård's contributions to the world of music were as varied as they were influential, making him a beloved figure among enthusiasts and critics alike.