Dive into the formative years of Alban Berg with "The Early Songs of Alban Berg," a captivating collection of his youthful compositions, released on Centaur Records in April 2021. This album offers a unique glimpse into the early career of one of the 20th century's most influential composers, showcasing his evolution from the rich traditions of German Romantic lieder to the innovative harmonies that would define his later works.
Spanning 31 minutes, this opera album features excerpts from Berg's "Jugendlieder" (Youth Songs), Volumes 1 and 2. These songs, composed under the guidance of Arnold Schoenberg, blend the influences of Brahms, Mahler, Strauss, and Debussy with Berg's unique harmonic language, creating a hazy, dreamlike soundscape that is both familiar and forward-looking. The album includes standout tracks such as "Heiliger Himmel," "Über meinen Nächten," and "Soldatenbraut," each offering a distinct perspective on Berg's early artistic vision.
Performances by baritone Steven Kimbrough and soprano Margaret Jackson, accompanied by Mary K. Jackson, bring these songs to life with superb artistry. The album is a testament to Berg's early genius, offering listeners a chance to explore the roots of his later, more celebrated works. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Berg's music or a newcomer to his compositions, "The Early Songs of Alban Berg" is an essential addition to any classical music collection.
2021 Centaur Records, Inc.2021 Centaur Records, Inc.
Tracks
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 1, Heiliger HimmelAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 9, Über meinen NächtenAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 21, Wenn Gespenster auferstehnAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 22, Vom EndeAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 8, LiebesliedAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 33, FurchtAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 24, ScheideliedAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 40, FrommAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 26, NachtgesangAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 64, Im WaldeAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 41, Über Nacht und Tag [1]Alban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 41, Über Nacht und Tag [2]Alban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 39, Ich und duAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 58, SoldatenbrautAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 47, SpukAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 68, LebenAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 74, TrinkliedAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 67, Was zucken die braunen GeigenAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 63, Ballade des äußeren LebensAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 65, Viel TräumeAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
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