Schnittke: Concertos

Dive into the intricate world of Alfred Schnittke with his compelling album "Schnittke: Concertos," released in 2016 under the CDK Music Classical label. This album is a masterful display of minimalism, featuring two standout compositions: "Concerto grosso No. 2" and the "Viola Concerto." Schnittke, a titan of 20th-century music, defies stylistic categorization, offering a unique and captivating listening experience.

The album spans a total of 69 minutes, showcasing Schnittke's extraordinary ability to blend various musical influences into a cohesive and profound whole. "Concerto grosso No. 2" is a testament to his genius, featuring the renowned Oleg Kagan and Natalia among other notable performers. The "Viola Concerto," performed by the esteemed Yuri Bashmet and accompanied by the USSR Ministry of Culture Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Gennady Rozhdestvensky, is another highlight that underscores Schnittke's mastery of the concerto form.

Schnittke's work is celebrated for its depth and complexity, and this album is no exception. It offers a glimpse into the composer's artistic journey, marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation and a deep spiritual undercurrent. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Schnittke's oeuvre, this album promises an enriching and thought-provoking experience.

Alfred Schnittke, a seminal figure in 20th-century music, was a Russian-German composer and pianist whose innovative works have left an indelible mark on classical music. Born to a German-Jewish father from the Baltikum, Schnittke's musical journey began in Vienna and continued in Moscow, where he honed his craft and became a member of the Composers' Union of the USSR. His compositions, often associated with minimalism, span a wide range of genres, including film scores, cantatas, and concertos. Schnittke's film music, notably for works like 'Die Abenteuer eines Zahnarztes' and 'Die Kommissarin', showcases his versatility and ability to blend dramatic narrative with musical depth. Throughout his career, Schnittke collaborated with esteemed orchestras and musicians, including the Berlin Philharmonic and the Lithuanian Chamber Orchestra. His brother, Viktor Schnittke, was also a notable figure in the literary world. Schnittke's legacy endures as one of the most influential composers of his time, celebrated for his unique voice and profound contributions to the musical landscape.

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About Alfred Schnittke

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