Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Boris Blacher with the album "Blacher: Lieder," released on January 1, 2016, under the Orfeo label. This 59-minute collection showcases the diverse musical genius of Blacher, offering a rich tapestry of compositions that span various genres and moods.
The album begins with the intimate and expressive "4 Lieder, Op. 25," a set of four songs that delve into themes of nature, whimsy, and the supernatural. Following these, the "3 Psalms" provide a spiritual and contemplative interlude, with settings of Psalms 142, 141, and 121 that are both powerful and serene.
Blacher's "Violin Sonata, Op. 40" is a standout piece, featuring three movements that range from the lively "Vivace" to the reflective "Adagio," culminating in the playful "Allegro scherzando." The "Aprèslude, Op. 57" series offers four more songs, each with its own unique character and depth.
The album also includes the "5 Sinnsprüche Omars des Zeltmachers," a set of songs based on the poetry of Omar Khayyam, and the dramatic "Francesca da Rimini, Op. 47." The whimsical and playful "Ungereimtes" series adds a touch of humor and lightness to the collection.
For those who appreciate modern classical music, "13 Ways of Looking at a Blackbird, Op. 54" and "Nebel" provide intricate and thought-provoking compositions. The album concludes with the haunting "Fragment for String Quartet," leaving the listener with a lasting impression of Blacher's artistic vision.
"Blacher: Lieder" is a testament to Boris Blacher's versatility and creativity, offering a diverse and engaging listening experience that highlights his enduring legacy in the world of classical music.