Song's First Cycle

Dive into the enchanting world of classical song cycles with Robin Tritschler's "Song's First Cycle," a captivating exploration of the genre's origins and evolution. Released in 2019 under the Signum Records label, this album spans a rich 82 minutes, featuring 21 tracks that showcase the artistry of renowned composers and the vocal prowess of Tritschler himself.

"Song's First Cycle" is not just a collection of songs but a historical journey through the development of the song cycle as an art form. The album charts the progress made by great Lied composers of the day, culminating in the cyclical perfection achieved by Beethoven and Schubert. It features works from these masters, as well as lesser-known composers, providing a comprehensive overview of the genre's evolution.

The album opens with three songs from Mozart's "Sophiens Reise," showcasing the composer's early contributions to the song cycle. It then delves into Schubert's "Lieder aus der ‘Selam'," a series of songs that highlight the composer's lyrical genius. Beethoven's "An die ferne Geliebte" is another highlight, demonstrating the composer's unique approach to the song cycle.

Tritschler's powerful vocals bring these works to life, accompanied by the skilled piano playing of Malcolm Martineau. The album also includes Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 2 "Lobgesang," providing a broader context for the development of the song cycle.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Song's First Cycle" offers a fascinating and engaging listening experience. It's a testament to Robin Tritschler's artistry and his deep understanding of the song cycle as a unique and powerful form of musical expression.