Wolfgang Rihm: Requiem-Strophen

Album Description

Wolfgang Rihm's profound masterpiece, Requiem-Strophen, is a deeply moving and intricately crafted work that transcends the traditional boundaries of a requiem mass. This world premiere recording, conducted by the renowned Mariss Jansons and performed by the Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks and the Chor des Bayerischen Rundfunks, features exceptional vocal contributions from Mojca Erdmann, Anna Prohaska, and Hanno Müller-Brachmann.

Composed in 2015 and 2016, Requiem-Strophen is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged work that weaves together verses from various poets and authors, juxtaposing them with liturgical texts to create a rich and complex tapestry of sound. The album's 15 tracks, divided into four parts, take the listener on a journey through a wide range of emotions and themes, from the haunting beauty of the Lacrimosa to the introspective contemplation of mortality.

The Fourth Part of the work is particularly notable, as it begins with a Lacrimosa based on Johannes Bobrowski's poem "Der Tod", published in 1998. This innovative approach to the traditional requiem form is a hallmark of Rihm's unique compositional style, which blends the sacred and the secular to create a work of profound spiritual depth.

Released on the BR-Klassik label in December 2018, this recording is a testament to the power and beauty of Rihm's music, and a fitting tribute to the artistry of the performers involved. With its intricate textures, soaring vocal lines, and profound emotional resonance, Requiem-Strophen is an album that will appeal to fans of contemporary classical music and anyone looking to experience the very best of modern composition.

December 7, 2018

2018 BR-Klassik

About Wolfgang Rihm

Wolfgang Rihm, born in Karlsruhe, Germany, in 1952, was a towering figure in contemporary classical music, renowned for his prolific and eclectic output. With over 500 compositions to his name, Rihm's work spans a wide range of genres, from operas and orchestral pieces to chamber music and vocal works. His music is celebrated for its originality and independence, often drawing comparisons to the innovations of Stockhausen and Boulez, yet always maintaining a unique voice. Rihm's compositions are known for their expressive depth and technical virtuosity, reflecting his deep engagement with the musical traditions of the past while pushing the boundaries of contemporary sound. Throughout his career, Rihm was not only a prolific composer but also a dedicated educator, serving as a professor of composition at the University of Music in Karlsruhe. His influence extended beyond his compositions, as he was deeply involved in the promotion of young talent and the broader cultural landscape of music. Rihm's legacy continues to inspire, with his works performed and celebrated around the world.