Gerhard: Leo, Gemini, Libra & Concerto for 8

Dive into the captivating world of Roberto Gerhard's "Leo, Gemini, Libra & Concerto for 8," a stunning collection of works that showcase the Catalan composer's virtuoso writing and unique musical voice. Released on January 7, 2014, via NEOS Music, this album presents four distinct pieces that offer a rich and engaging exploration of Gerhard's compositional style.

The album opens with "Leo," a piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection with its intricate and expressive melodies. "Gemini," the second track, stands out with its solitary scoring and structure, providing a stark contrast to the other works on the album. "Libra" follows, offering a sense of kinship with "Leo" through its shared musical substances. The album concludes with the "Concerto for 8," a dynamic and powerful piece that showcases the talents of the performers and the depth of Gerhard's compositional skills.

Performed by the esteemed Collegium Novum Zürich, under the direction of Peter Hirsch, this album benefits from the ensemble's precision and sensitivity to the composer's intentions. The performances are further enriched by the contributions of Rahel Cunz and Christoph Keller, who bring their own unique perspectives to the music.

With a total duration of one hour and one minute, "Leo, Gemini, Libra & Concerto for 8" is an album that demands and rewards close listening. It is a testament to Roberto Gerhard's enduring legacy and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving. Whether you are a longtime fan of Gerhard's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Roberto Gerhard, born in 1896 in Valls, Spain, was a composer whose musical journey spanned two nations and a wealth of influences. With Germanic parents, Gerhard's early musical training in his native Catalonia was marked by studies with the renowned pianist Enrique Granados and the esteemed composer Felipe Pedrell, who ignited his passion for Catalan folk music. His compositional style was further shaped by his studies with Arnold Schoenberg, reflecting a blend of Catalan tradition and modernist innovation. Gerhard's exile from Spain led him to a prolific career in Britain, where he composed for theater, radio, and film, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to captivate audiences today. His works, such as the Violin Concerto, showcase his unique voice and enduring appeal. Gerhard passed away in Cambridge in 1970, leaving behind a body of work that stands as a testament to his artistic vision and cultural heritage.