Hindemith: Sonatas for Viola and Piano; Sonatas for Viola Alone

Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Paul Hindemith's sonatas with this exceptional 2-CD set, released by ECM New Series in 1988. This collection brings together Hindemith's sonatas for viola and piano, as well as his solo viola works, offering a comprehensive exploration of his compositional genius.

The album features the masterful interpretations of renowned violist Kim Kashkashian and pianist Robert Levin, who bring a depth of expression and technical brilliance to these complex and evocative pieces. With a total duration of over two hours, the album is a substantial journey through Hindemith's musical landscape, showcasing his unique blend of classical and neoclassical influences.

The tracklist includes a variety of sonatas, each with its own distinct character and emotional resonance. From the lively and energetic "Sonata for Solo Viola, Op. 31 No. 4: I. Äußerst lebhaft" to the introspective and expressive "Sonata for Solo Viola, Op. 25 No. 1: V. Langsam, mit viel Ausdruck," the album offers a diverse range of musical experiences.

Hindemith's compositions are known for their technical demanding nature and innovative structures, and this album is no exception. The sonatas for viola and piano, such as "Viola Sonata in F Major, Op. 11 No. 4," highlight the collaborative interplay between the two instruments, while the solo viola works, like "Sonata for Solo Viola (1937)," demonstrate the full expressive range of the viola.

This album is a testament to the enduring legacy of Paul Hindemith and the timeless beauty of his music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Hindemith's work, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

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.

Hindemith: Sonatas for Viola and Piano; Sonatas for Viola Alone

Album Details

Tracks

About Paul Hindemith

Best vinyl LP prices!