Dive into the intricate world of Anton Webern with "Boulez conducts Webern II," a captivating collection of orchestral works that showcase the composer's avant-garde genius. Released on January 1, 1995, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album is a testament to Webern's innovative spirit and his enduring influence on chamber music.
The album opens with Webern's "Passacaglia for Orchestra, Op. 1," a powerful and dynamic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the collection. Following this, the "5 Movements, Op. 5 (1929 Orchestral Version)" offer a journey through a variety of moods and tempos, from the intense "Heftig bewegt" to the delicate "In zarter Bewegung." These movements demonstrate Webern's mastery of orchestration and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music.
The "6 Pieces for Orchestra, Op. 6 (1909 Original Version)" provide a glimpse into Webern's early work, showcasing his developing style and his penchant for intricate, interwoven melodies. The album also includes Webern's orchestration of Bach's "Musikalisches Opfer, BWV 1079: Fuga (Ricercata) a 6 voci," a fascinating blend of Baroque and modernist styles.
Completing the collection are Webern's orchestrations of Schubert's "6 German Dances, D. 820," which add a touch of classical elegance to the album. The final track, "Im Sommerwind," is a beautiful and evocative piece that leaves a lasting impression.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, "Boulez conducts Webern II" is a comprehensive exploration of Webern's orchestral works. Conducted by the renowned Pierre Boulez, this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in avant-garde music and the works of one of the 20th century's most influential composers.
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