Dive into the captivating world of Alexander von Zemlinsky with this compelling album, released in 2014. This collection features two of Zemlinsky's most intriguing works: "A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16" and "Six Maeterlinck Songs, Op. 13," both performed by the esteemed London Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Vladimir Jurowski.
"A Florentine Tragedy" is a dramatic cantata that brings to life a tale of love, jealousy, and betrayal set in Renaissance Florence. The work is a masterclass in orchestration and vocal expression, with Zemlinsky's rich harmonies and vivid orchestration painting a vivid sonic landscape. The piece is sung in German and features a stellar cast of vocalists, including Petra Lang, Heike Wessels, and Sergey Skorokhodov, who bring depth and nuance to their respective roles.
Complementing the cantata are the "Six Maeterlinck Songs," a set of songs based on texts by the Belgian symbolist poet Maurice Maeterlinck. These songs offer a stark contrast to the dramatic intensity of "A Florentine Tragedy," with their introspective lyrics and delicate orchestration. The songs are performed by Petra Lang, whose sensitive interpretation brings out the subtle shades of meaning in Maeterlinck's poetry.
The album spans a total of 23 tracks, with a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes. It's a rich and rewarding listen, showcasing Zemlinsky's unique voice and the exceptional talents of the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Zemlinsky's music or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The dark cabaret genre is a unique blend of classical and cabaret music, and this album is a great example of that. The album is a great addition to any classical music collection.
2014 London Philharmonic Orchestra Ltd2014 LPO
Tracks
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Feurig SturmendAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: So Langsam, WeibAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Ich heisse Guido BardiAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Wo ist Mein Bundel?Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Wackrer Simone, GenugAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Bianca, Sag, Stunde nicht dies kostbar edle Kleid...Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Wie, wenn ich die weisse Bianca forderte?Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Was gibt es Neues, mein Prinz?Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Wie er gleich einem schalen Kramer spricht!Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Genug! Zur Freunde reif ist diese NachtAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Was meint der Fleck hier auf dem Tuch?Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Holdsel'ge Bianca, der schale Kramer langweilt michAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Simone, jetzt buss ich nach Hause gehn!Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Ei, welch' ein Schwert!Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Bianca, hol mein Schwert!Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Narr, nimm mir vom Hais deine Wurgefinger!Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
A Florentine Tragedy, Op. 16: Und jetzt du dir!Alexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Heike Wessels, Sergey Skorokhodov, Albert Dohmen
Six Maeterlinck Songs, Op. 13: I. Die drei SchwesternAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Petra Lang
Six Maeterlinck Songs, Op. 13: II. Die Mädchen mit den verbundenen AugenAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Petra Lang
Six Maeterlinck Songs, Op. 13: III. Lied der JungfrauAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Petra Lang
Six Maeterlinck Songs, Op. 13: IV. Als ihr Geliebter schiedAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Petra Lang
Six Maeterlinck Songs, Op. 13: V. Und kehrt er einst heimAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Petra Lang
Six Maeterlinck Songs, Op. 13: VI. Sie kam zum Schloss gegangenAlexander von Zemlinsky, Vladimir Jurowski, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Petra Lang
Alexander von Zemlinsky, born in the culturally rich Leopoldstadt district of Vienna in 1871, was an Austrian composer and conductor whose influence resonates through the annals of classical music. Though not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, Zemlinsky's contributions are profound, earning him a place among the greats of his era. His musical journey was significantly shaped by the mentorship of Johannes Brahms, whose guidance left an indelible mark on his compositions.
Zemlinsky's legacy extends beyond his own works; he was also a revered teacher, nurturing the talents of notable students such as Erich Korngold, Hans Krása, and Alban Berg. His personal life was equally intriguing, marked by a romantic and professional relationship with the renowned composer Alma Schindler, whom he taught and later had a brief affair with.
Today, Zemlinsky is perhaps best known for his "Lyrische Symphonie," a masterpiece that showcases his unique voice and innovative approach to composition. His music, often categorized under the dark cabaret genre, reflects the rich tapestry of his experiences and the cultural milieu in which he thrived. Zemlinsky's compositions offer a deep dive into the emotional and intellectual landscapes of his time, making them as relevant and captivating today as they were during his lifetime. Zemlinsky passed away in 1942 in Larchmont, New York, leaving behind a musical heritage that continues to inspire and enchant.
Vinylscout
Alexander von Zemlinsky
