György Kurtág, a master of contemporary classical music, presents a profound and introspective collection with "Kurtág: Grabstein für Stephan, Op. 15; Stele, Op. 33 / Stockhausen: Gruppen." Released on January 1, 1996, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label, this album is a testament to Kurtág's unique compositional style and emotional depth. Spanning just 44 minutes, the album is a concise yet powerful journey through three distinct works.
The album opens with "Grabstein für Stephan, Op. 15c," a poignant piece dedicated to the memory of Stephan, a close friend of the composer. Following this, "Gruppen (For 3 Orchestras, Work No. 6)" by Karlheinz Stockhausen showcases Kurtág's versatility and collaboration with other avant-garde composers. The centerpiece of the album is "Stele, Op. 33," a three-movement work that exemplifies Kurtág's ability to convey deep emotion and complexity through minimalist means. Each movement, from the somber "Larghissimo - Adagio" to the intense "Lamentoso - Disperato, con moto" and the reflective "Molto sostenuto," offers a different facet of Kurtág's compositional genius.
This album is a must-listen for fans of classical and contemporary music, offering a rare glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential composers of our time. Kurtág's ability to evoke profound emotions with seemingly simple musical gestures makes this album a timeless addition to any classical music collection.
Vinylscout