Immerse yourself in the profound and intense world of Allan Pettersson with his compelling album, "Pettersson: Concerto for Strings No. 1 / Symphony No. 12, 'The Dead On the Square'." Released on January 1, 1988, under the Caprice label, this masterpiece spans a duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering a rich and immersive listening experience.
The album features two significant works by Pettersson. The Concerto No. 1 for Strings is a three-movement piece that showcases the composer's mastery of string arrangements, with each movement offering a unique emotional and dynamic landscape. The first movement, "Allegro," is energetic and driving, while the second, "Andante," provides a more reflective and introspective mood. The final movement, "Largamente," is a sweeping and dramatic conclusion to the concerto.
The second part of the album is dedicated to Symphony No. 12, subtitled "The Dead in the Square." This monumental work is divided into nine movements, each telling a part of a larger, haunting narrative. The symphony begins with "The Dead on the Square" and continues through movements like "The Massacre," "The Men of Nitrate," and "Death," each one building on the previous to create a powerful and evocative journey. The final movements, "How the Flags Were Born," "I Call upon Them," "The Enemies," "They Are Here," and "Always," bring the symphony to a profound and resonant conclusion.
Allan Pettersson's compositional style is known for its depth, complexity, and emotional intensity. This album is a testament to his ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Whether you are a longtime fan of Pettersson or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a captivating exploration of his musical genius.