Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Johannes Brahms with "The Finest Brahms Recordings," a meticulously curated collection of his most profound works. Released on June 1, 2015, under the Andromeda label, this album spans a rich tapestry of classical genres, including solo piano, chamber music, and orchestral pieces, all rendered with exquisite artistry.
The album opens with the soaring "Alto Rhapsody, Op. 53," a masterpiece that showcases Brahms' ability to blend lyrical beauty with structural complexity. It continues with the deeply moving "Ernste Gesänge, Op. 121," a set of four songs that delve into themes of mortality and reflection, presented here in both their original and orchestral versions. Each rendition offers a unique perspective, highlighting Brahms' versatility and depth.
Also included are selections from Brahms' Lieder, Op. 105, Op. 96, and Op. 47, as well as his Gesänge, Op. 43 and Op. 91. These pieces, characterized by their poetic sensitivity and emotional resonance, demonstrate Brahms' mastery of the art song. From the haunting "Der Tod, das ist die kühle Nacht" to the tender "Geistliches Wiegenlied," each track is a testament to Brahms' enduring appeal.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes, "The Finest Brahms Recordings" offers a comprehensive journey through the composer's oeuvre. Whether you're a seasoned classical connoisseur or a newcomer to Brahms' music, this album promises a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
2015 Andromeda2015 Andromeda
Tracks
Alto Rhapsody, Op. 53Johannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, London Philharmonic Male Choir, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Clemens Krauss
4 Ernste Gesänge, Op. 121: No. 1, Denn es gehet dem MenschenJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, John Newmark
4 Ernste Gesänge, Op. 121: No. 2, Ich wandte mich und sahe an alleJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, John Newmark
4 Ernste Gesänge, Op. 121: No. 3, O Tod, wie bitter bist du BassJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, John Newmark
4 Ernste Gesänge, Op. 121: No. 4, Wenn ich mit Menschen und mit Engelszungen redeteJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, John Newmark
4 Ernste Gesänge, Op. 121 (Version for Voice & Orchestra): No. 1, One Thing Befalleth the Beasts and the Sons of MenJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Sir Malcolm Sargent
4 Ernste Gesänge, Op. 121 (Version for Voice & Orchestra): No. 2, So I Returned and Did ConsiderJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Sir Malcolm Sargent
4 Ernste Gesänge, Op. 121 (Version for Voice & Orchestra): No. 3, O Death, How Bitter Art ThouJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Sir Malcolm Sargent
4 Ernste Gesänge, Op. 121 (Version for Voice & Orchestra): No. 4, Though I Speak with Tongues of MenJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, BBC Symphony Orchestra, Sir Malcolm Sargent
5 Lieder, Op. 105: No. 2, Immer leise wird mein SchlummerJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, Bruno Walter
4 Lieder, Op. 96: No. 1, Der Tod, das ist die kühle NachtJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, Bruno Walter
5 Lieder, Op. 47: No. 1, BotschaftJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, Bruno Walter
4 Gesänge, Op. 43: No. 1, Von ewiger LiebeJohannes Brahms, Kathleen Ferrier, Bruno Walter
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