Korngold: String Sextet, Op. 10 & Suite, Op. 23

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Erich Wolfgang Korngold with this captivating album, featuring two of his most celebrated chamber works: the String Sextet in D Major, Op. 10, and the Suite, Op. 23. This recording offers a rare opportunity to experience the genius of Korngold, a composer who, at the tender age of 19, crafted a sextet that critics hailed as the finest since Brahms.

The String Sextet in D Major, Op. 10, completed in 1915, showcases Korngold's post-Brahmsian late romantic style and hints at his future operatic brilliance. The four movements—from the lyrical and romantic first subject to the spirited finale—demonstrate Korngold's extraordinary compositional prowess and his ability to evoke a wide range of moods and atmospheres.

Complementing the sextet is the Suite, Op. 23, a charming and varied work that includes a prelude and fugue, a graceful waltz, a rapid grotesque, a simple and heartfelt song, and a rondo-finale with variations. This suite, performed by an ensemble of two violins, cello, and piano for one hand, adds another layer of depth and diversity to the album.

Recorded in 2014 by the Aron Quartett and an ensemble of distinguished musicians, this album offers a rich and immersive listening experience. With a total duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, it provides ample time to appreciate the intricacies and beauty of Korngold's compositions. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Korngold's work or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Erich Wolfgang Korngold, born in Brno in 1897, was an Austrian-born American composer and conductor whose musical journey was as remarkable as it was influential. Recognised as a child prodigy, Korngold's early promise blossomed into a career that spanned both classical composition and the burgeoning world of Hollywood film scores. His work in cinema is legendary; he was the first composer of international renown to create music for films, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Korngold's concert works, such as his celebrated Violin Concerto, continue to captivate audiences worldwide. His incidental music for Shakespeare's 'Much Ado About Nothing' also garnered instant acclaim. Korngold's life and music reflect a unique blend of European sophistication and Hollywood glamour, making his compositions a treasure trove for both classical enthusiasts and film buffs alike.