Schulhoff: String Sextet & Strauss: Metamorphosen

Dive into the captivating world of Erwin Schulhoff with this exquisite chamber music album, released in 2012 by Paladino Music. This collection features the complete String Sextet, Op. 45, composed by Schulhoff in 1924, and Richard Strauss' Metamorphosen, arranged for chamber ensemble. The album spans nearly an hour of enchanting music, showcasing the depth and dynamism of Schulhoff's compositional style.

Erwin Schulhoff, a Czech composer born in 1894, was a contemporary of Dmitri Shostakovich and shared a similar intensity and dynamism in his music. His String Sextet, Op. 45, is a four-movement work that explores a range of moods and tempos, from the resolute energy of the first movement to the playful spirit of the third. The final movement, Molto Adagio, offers a serene and introspective conclusion to the sextet.

Complementing Schulhoff's work is Richard Strauss' Metamorphosen, originally composed for string septet and arranged here for chamber ensemble. This piece, composed in 1945, is a poignant reflection on the destruction of German culture during World War II.

The album features the Hyperion Ensemble, known for their precise and expressive performances. The recording captures the intricate details of the compositions, providing a rich and immersive listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned chamber music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album offers a compelling introduction to the works of Erwin Schulhoff and Richard Strauss.

Erwin Schulhoff, born in Prague in 1894, was a pioneering Czech composer and pianist whose career was tragically cut short by the Nazi regime. A true innovator, Schulhoff was one of the first European composers to embrace jazz, incorporating dance forms like ragtime, tango, and foxtrot into his piano works. His music is known for its adventurous and muscular qualities, reflecting his wide range of influences and forward-thinking approach. Despite his premature death in the Wülzburg concentration camp in 1942, Schulhoff's compositions continue to captivate audiences with their power and variety. His legacy as a composer who was ahead of his time endures, making his music a compelling exploration of 20th-century musical evolution.