Alexander von Zemlinsky: Frühe Klavierwerke und Lieder auf Gedichte von Richard Dehmel

Dive into the early works of Alexander von Zemlinsky with this captivating collection of piano pieces and songs set to poems by Richard Dehmel. Released on December 3, 2014, under the Jecklin label, this album offers a unique blend of dark cabaret styles that showcase Zemlinsky's compositional prowess and emotional depth.

The album opens with a series of five songs for baritone and piano, each setting a different poem by Richard Dehmel. These pieces, including "Vorspiel," "Ansturm," and "Stromüber," highlight Zemlinsky's ability to translate poetic imagery into evocative musical landscapes. Following these songs, the album delves into the "Fantasien über Gedichte von Richard Dehmel für Klavier, Op. 9," a set of four piano pieces that continue to explore the themes and moods of Dehmel's poetry.

The second half of the album features Zemlinsky's "Ländliche Tänze für Klavier, Op. 1," a lively suite of eleven dances that range from the tender "Mit Wärme" to the energetic "Energisch." These pieces offer a contrast to the more introspective songs and fantasies, showcasing Zemlinsky's versatility as a composer.

With a total runtime of 42 minutes, this album provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of Zemlinsky's early works, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Zemlinsky or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.