The Percussion Universe of Axel Borup-Jørgensen

Album Description

Dive into the captivating world of percussion with "The Percussion Universe of Axel Borup-Jørgensen," a remarkable collection that showcases the innovative and expressive compositions of Danish composer Axel Borup-Jørgensen. Released on September 2, 2014, by OUR Recordings, this album spans a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, featuring five exceptional works that highlight the composer's artistic evolution.

The album opens with "Solo, Op. 88," performed by the renowned Gert Mortensen, offering a profound and introspective journey into the world of solo percussion. Following this, "Music for Percussion and Viola, Op. 18," performed by Tim Frederiksen and Percurama under the direction of Gert Mortensen, blends the rich textures of percussion with the delicate tones of the viola, creating a unique sonic landscape.

"La Primavera, Op. 97," "Periphrasis, Op. 156," and "Winter Music, Op. 113:1" complete the album, each piece offering a distinct exploration of rhythm, timbre, and compositional technique. These works, including three world premiere recordings, provide a comprehensive overview of Axel Borup-Jørgensen's creative genius and his significant contributions to the realm of percussion music.

Recorded at the Concert Hall of the Royal Danish Academy of Music, this album benefits from exceptional acoustics and meticulous production, ensuring that every nuance of the performances is captured with clarity and precision. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious explorer of contemporary percussion, "The Percussion Universe of Axel Borup-Jørgensen" promises an enriching and inspiring experience.

September 2, 2014

2014 OUR Recordings

About Axel Borup-Jørgensen

Axel Borup-Jørgensen (1924-2012) was a Danish composer whose life and work were marked by a deep connection to nature and a unique musical voice. Born in Hjørring, Denmark, Borup-Jørgensen spent his formative years in Sweden, where his family moved when he was just two years old. This dual cultural upbringing significantly influenced his compositional style, which is characterized by its intense nature mysticism and distinctive modernist approach.

Borup-Jørgensen studied piano at the Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen and further honed his skills in instrumentation with notable figures like Poul Schierbeck and Jørgen Jersild. Despite his formal training, he considered himself largely self-taught as a composer, developing a personal style that often explored new sound possibilities and innovative ways of playing instruments.

His works are known for their vivid imagery, evoking everything from the skeletal outlines of barren trees to the tumultuous energy of a storm at sea. Borup-Jørgensen's meticulous approach to composition and his collaboration with instrumentalists who could bring his vision to life made his music both distinctive and deeply evocative.

Throughout his career, Borup-Jørgensen maintained a quiet yet prolific presence in the musical world, continuing to refine his craft until his passing in 2012. His legacy includes a rich body of work that spans various genres and forms, each piece a testament to his unique artistic vision and his enduring love for the natural world.