Zimmermann: Violin Concerto, Photoptosis, Die Soldaten Vocal Symphony

Dive into the captivating world of Bernd Alois Zimmermann with this exceptional album, featuring a trio of his most profound works. The album opens with Zimmermann's magnificent Violin Concerto, performed by the acclaimed violinist Leila Josefowicz, accompanied by the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Hannu Lintu. This concerto, composed in 1950, showcases Zimmermann's unique blend of neoclassical and modernist styles, offering a rich and engaging listening experience.

Following the concerto is "Photoptosis," an orchestral score that exemplifies Zimmermann's innovative approach to composition. This piece, composed in 1968, is a testament to the composer's ability to push the boundaries of traditional music.

The album concludes with the first-ever recording of "Die Soldaten Vocal Symphony," based on Zimmermann's monumental opera "Die Soldaten." Widely regarded as one of the greatest German operas of the 20th century, this vocal symphony is a powerful and dramatic exploration of love, war, and human nature. The performance features a stellar cast of singers, including Anu Komsi, Jeni Packalen, Hilary Summers, Peter Tantsits, Ville Rusanen, and Juhu Uusitalo, all accompanied by the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra.

Recorded between 2016 and 2018 at the Helsinki Music Centre, this album offers a comprehensive overview of Bernd Alois Zimmermann's musical genius. With a total runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes, it's a compelling journey through the works of one of the most influential composers of post-Second World War Germany.