Koppel: Concertos

Album Description

Dive into the world of contemporary classical music with Anders Koppel's "Koppel: Concertos," a captivating album released in 2011 under the Dacapo label. This album is a testament to Koppel's versatility and innovative spirit, featuring a diverse range of concertos that showcase his mastery of various solo instruments.

The album opens with the Sinfonia Concertante for Violin, Viola, Clarinet, and Bassoon, a piece that beautifully blends these instruments in a harmonious dialogue. The concerto's three movements—Andante grazioso, Largo, and Allegro appassionato—offer a rich tapestry of sounds and emotions, from the gentle grace of the opening to the passionate energy of the finale.

Next, the Concerto for Flute and Harp (revised version) takes center stage. This five-movement work is a delightful exploration of the flute and harp's unique timbres, with each movement offering a distinct mood and character. From the serene Intrada to the lively Finale, this concerto is a journey through a landscape of sounds that will captivate any classical music enthusiast.

The album concludes with the Tuba Concerto, a powerful and dramatic piece that highlights the tuba's often-underappreciated versatility. The three movements—Moderato, Andante misterioso, and Lento - Allegro assai—take the listener on a journey from introspection to exhilaration, showcasing the tuba's range and expressive potential.

Throughout the album, the Aalborg Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Matthias Aeschbacher, provides impeccable support, bringing Koppel's compositions to life with precision and passion. Whether you're a seasoned classical music fan or a curious newcomer, "Koppel: Concertos" is an album that promises to enrich and inspire. With a total duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listen, filled with musical discoveries and delights.

July 5, 2011

2011 Dacapo

About Anders Koppel

Anders Koppel, born in Copenhagen in 1947, is a versatile Danish composer and musician whose career spans over five decades. He is renowned for his eclectic style that seamlessly blends classical, world, rock, and jazz influences. Koppel's journey began with the co-founding of the iconic rock group Savage Rose in 1967, where he played alongside his brother Thomas. His musical prowess extends to the trio Bazaar, which he was a part of from 1976 to 2012, and the trio Koppel-Andersen-Koppel, featuring his son, saxophonist Benjamin Koppel.

Koppel's compositions are vast and varied, including scores for over 150 films, 50 theatrical plays, and three musicals. He has also composed for eight ballets for Nyt Dansk Danseteater. His work has earned him two Danish film awards, the Robert, for best film score. Beyond his solo and collaborative projects, Koppel has written numerous concertos for various solo instruments, often tailored for his son Benjamin. His partnership with Henrik Dam Thomsen has produced a wealth of notable projects, including music for the ensemble Mad Cows Sing and the Copenhagen Cello Quartet.

Growing up in a musically rich environment, with his father Herman D. Koppel being one of Denmark's most significant composers and pianists, Anders Koppel has carried on a legacy of musical excellence. His home, filled with art and memories, reflects his deep connection to creativity and inspiration. Koppel's ability to evoke emotion through his compositions makes him a standout figure in the world of music, continually discovering new sounds and pushing artistic boundaries.