Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative world of Mieczysław Weinberg with the release of "Weinberg: Symphonies Nos. 2 & 21." This captivating two-CD set, released on May 3, 2019, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, offers a deeply moving journey through Weinberg's symphonic masterpieces.
The album features two of Weinberg's most significant symphonies, performed by some of the most acclaimed musicians in the classical world. The String Symphony No. 2, composed in 1946, is a poignant reflection of the composer's personal tragedy, written soon after he learned of the loss of his entire family in Poland during World War II. This work is brought to life by the virtuoso ensemble Kremerata Baltica, led by the renowned violinist Gidon Kremer.
The second symphony on this album is the monumental Symphony No. 21, Op. 152, also known as "Kaddish." This six-movement work, performed by the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra under the direction of the gifted conductor Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla, is Weinberg's last symphony and a deeply spiritual piece that pays homage to the victims of the Holocaust. The "Kaddish" is a Jewish prayer for the dead, and Weinberg's symphony is a powerful and moving tribute to those who perished.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes, this album is a testament to Weinberg's extraordinary compositional skill and his ability to convey deep emotion through music. Whether you are a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, "Weinberg: Symphonies Nos. 2 & 21" is an essential addition to your collection, offering a profound and unforgettable listening experience.