Schoenberg: Erwartung; Cabaret Songs

Dive into the captivating world of Arnold Schoenberg with this 1993 release, a compelling blend of his seminal works "Erwartung" and "Cabaret Songs." This album offers a unique journey through the composer's diverse musical landscape, showcasing his innovative spirit and profound emotional depth.

"Erwartung," a monodrama in one act, is a stark and intense exploration of psychological turmoil. Composed in just over two weeks, this traumatic masterpiece of expressionism reflects Schoenberg's own psychological state. The work is brought to life by the luxurious depth of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and the sumptuous voice of Jessye Norman, conducted by the esteemed James Levine. The piece is sung in German and is a powerful testament to Schoenberg's ability to convey raw human emotion through music.

Complementing "Erwartung" are the "Cabaret Songs," a collection of light-hearted, witty pieces that Schoenberg composed to earn extra income while conducting at the Überbrettl cabaret in 1901. These songs, originally with piano accompaniment and later enhanced with additional instruments, offer a stark contrast to the intensity of "Erwartung." They provide a glimpse into Schoenberg's versatility and his ability to compose in various styles.

The album features a total of 17 tracks, with a duration of approximately 1 hour and 2 minutes. It was released under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label and is a testament to Schoenberg's enduring influence on classical music. Whether you're a longtime fan of Schoenberg or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Arnold Schoenberg, born in Vienna in 1874, was a revolutionary figure in 20th-century classical music, renowned for his groundbreaking compositions and theoretical innovations. As a composer, Schoenberg was among the first to challenge traditional harmony, pioneering atonality and developing the twelve-tone technique, which uses a specific order of all twelve pitches in the chromatic scale. This method, also known as serialism, had a profound impact on the course of modern music.

Schoenberg's music is characterized by its use of motives to create coherence and his exploration of dissonance. He was also a prolific writer and teacher, influencing generations of composers, including Alban Berg and Anton Webern. Beyond music, Schoenberg was a multifaceted artist who also painted and invented. His legacy extends far beyond his compositions, encompassing his influential teachings and writings that continue to shape the way we understand and create music today. Schoenberg's journey from his early works to his atonal innovations and twelve-tone technique is a testament to his enduring influence on classical music.