Ligeti: Volumina

György Ligeti, a Hungarian-Austrian composer renowned for his contributions to contemporary classical music, presents "Ligeti: Volumina," a captivating exploration of avant-garde sounds released on October 25, 2013, under the Wergo label. This album, spanning 1 hour and 17 minutes, is a testament to Ligeti's innovative spirit, featuring a collection of organ works that push the boundaries of traditional notation and musical expression.

The album opens with "Musica ricercata per pianoforte für Orgel," a series of pieces originally composed for piano but masterfully adapted for the organ by Dominik Susteck. Each movement offers a unique blend of tempos and moods, from the solemn "Mesto - rigido e ceremoniale" to the lively "Allegro con spirito." Ligeti's intricate compositions showcase his ability to create complex, layered soundscapes that challenge and engage the listener.

Following this, the album delves into "Zwei Etüden für Orgel," where Ligeti's experimental approach is evident in pieces like "Harmonies" and "Coulée." The "Sprachsignale - Improvisation für Orgel" section further exemplifies his avant-garde style, with improvisational pieces that explore the organ's expressive capabilities.

The centerpiece of the album is "Volumina," a work that Ligeti himself felt was best represented through graphic notation rather than traditional scores. This piece, along with the rest of the album, offers a profound listening experience that highlights Ligeti's unique contributions to the world of contemporary classical music.

"Ligeti: Volumina" is not just an album but a journey through the mind of one of the most influential composers of the 20th and 21st centuries. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of avant-garde music or a curious newcomer, this collection promises to captivate and inspire.