Dive into the avant-garde world of Mauricio Kagel with his 1997 masterpiece, "Kagel: Variété." This captivating album, performed by the renowned Ensemble Modern and conducted by Kagel himself, is a testament to the composer's innovative spirit and musical genius. Born in Buenos Aires in 1931 and later settling in Cologne, Kagel brought a unique perspective to the classical music scene, blending various influences to create a sound that is distinctly his own.
"Kagel: Variété" is a collection of eleven dynamic pieces, each with its own unique tempo and character, ranging from the energetic "Con moto" to the intense "Furioso," and the gentle "Grazioso." The album spans a total of 40 minutes, offering a rich and diverse listening experience. Kagel's compositional prowess shines through in every track, showcasing his ability to push boundaries and challenge conventional musical norms.
The album was released on January 1, 1997, under the naïve classique label, and has since become a celebrated work in the avant-garde genre. Kagel's contributions to music extend beyond this album, with notable works such as "Rrrr... – 8 Organ Pieces" and "10 Marches," as well as his explorations in theatre, film, and radio plays.
For those eager to explore the avant-garde genre or delve deeper into Kagel's extensive body of work, "Kagel: Variété" is an excellent starting point. The album's innovative compositions and the Ensemble Modern's exceptional performance make it a standout piece in the world of contemporary classical music.