Kienzl: Lieder

Album Description

Dive into the enchanting world of Wilhelm Kienzl's "Kienzl: Lieder," a captivating collection of songs that showcase the composer's mastery of vocal music. Released in the year 2000 under the CPO label, this album spans a little over an hour, offering a rich tapestry of musical expressions that will captivate both classical aficionados and casual listeners alike.

The album features a diverse array of song cycles and individual pieces, each bringing a unique flavor to the listening experience. From the introspective "Süßes Verzichten, Op. 16" to the evocative "Geliebt-Vergessen, Op. 18," Kienzl's compositions delve into themes of love, longing, and reflection. The "6 Lieder, Op. 55" and "4 Japanische Lieder, Op. 47" add a touch of cultural richness, with lyrics that draw from both European and Japanese poetry.

Performances by Dagmar Schellenberger and Peter Stamm bring these works to life with stunning clarity and depth. Schellenberger's vocals are both powerful and nuanced, perfectly complementing the piano accompaniment by Stamm. Together, they navigate the intricate melodies and harmonies of Kienzl's compositions, creating a seamless and immersive listening experience.

Whether you're familiar with Kienzl's work or discovering it for the first time, "Kienzl: Lieder" offers a compelling journey through the composer's lyrical and melodic genius. This album is a testament to Kienzl's enduring legacy and his ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with the human experience.

1 januari 2000

2000 CPO

About Wilhelm Kienzl

Wilhelm Kienzl, born in Waizenkirchen, Upper Austria, was a prominent Austrian composer whose life spanned from 1857 to 1941. Kienzl's musical journey took him through prestigious institutions in Graz, Prague, Leipzig, and Vienna, where he even had the opportunity to study briefly with the legendary Franz Liszt in Weimar. His most renowned work is the opera "Der Evangelimann," which premiered in Berlin in 1895 and quickly gained popularity, becoming one of his most performed pieces. Kienzl's compositions span a variety of genres, including operas, melodramas, and orchestral works, each reflecting his unique musical vision. Despite his significant contributions to music, Kienzl's legacy is also marked by his controversial support for the Nazi regime, which included public praise for Adolf Hitler before Austria's Anschluss in 1938. Today, Kienzl's music continues to be appreciated by enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of late 19th and early 20th-century Austrian music.