The Oxtet Does Hindemith

Dive into the rich and varied world of Paul Hindemith with "The Oxtet Does Hindemith," a captivating exploration of the composer's masterful works for brass and piano. Released on May 12, 2023, via Big Round Records, this album spans a little over an hour and seven minutes, offering a deep dive into Hindemith's neoclassical and classical piano compositions.

The album features a stunning array of sonatas and concertos, each showcasing Hindemith's unique blend of lyricism, humor, and intricate contrapuntal techniques. From the powerful "Sonata for Trumpet and Piano" to the hauntingly beautiful "Sonata for Trombone and Piano," every piece is a testament to Hindemith's genius and his enduring influence on the classical music landscape.

Hindemith, a prolific German and American composer, music theorist, teacher, violist, and conductor, is known for his innovative approach to composition. His works often combine elements of Baroque and contemporary styles, resulting in a sound that is both timeless and cutting-edge. This album is a perfect introduction to his post-American style, which he developed after moving to the United States in the 1940s.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "The Oxtet Does Hindemith" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's diverse instrumentation, ranging from trumpet and piano to bass tuba and strings, ensures that there's something for everyone. So, sit back, relax, and let the music of Paul Hindemith transport you to a world of sonic beauty and intellectual depth.

Paul Hindemith, born in 1895 in Hanau, Germany, was a prolific and versatile figure in the world of classical music, renowned for his compositions, conducting, and performances on the viola. Hindemith's career spanned two continents, with significant contributions made in both Europe and the United States. He is celebrated for his advocacy of the Neue Sachlichkeit style in the 1920s, which is evident in works like his "Kammermusik" series. His compositions often featured the viola and viola d'amore, showcasing his deep connection to the instrument he played professionally. Notable works include the song cycle "Das Marienleben," the opera "Mathis der Maler," and the oratorio "When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd," a poignant requiem based on Walt Whitman's poem.

Hindemith's life was marked by both artistic innovation and personal resilience. He founded the Amar Quartet in 1921, touring extensively across Europe. As political tensions rose in Germany, Hindemith and his wife emigrated to Switzerland and later to the United States, where he continued to compose, conduct, and teach. Despite being denounced by the Nazi regime, Hindemith's music remained deeply rooted in his German heritage, blending tonal craftsmanship with a modern sensibility. His later years in America saw him become one of the most performed European composers, teaching composition at Yale and leaving a lasting impact on the musical landscape. Hindemith's extensive output includes operas, ballets, concertos, and orchestral works, all of which reflect his unique voice and enduring legacy in classical music.