Zemlinsky: Lyrische Symphonie, Op. 18 & Orchestral Preludes and Interludes

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Alexander von Zemlinsky with this compelling album, released on January 1, 2002, under the Warner Classics label. This collection is a masterful blend of dark cabaret genres, showcasing Zemlinsky's unique compositional prowess and his ability to evoke deep emotions through his music.

The album features the complete "Lyrische Symphonie, Op. 18," a seven-movement symphony that sets poems by Rabindranath Tagore to music. Each movement is a journey through different emotional landscapes, from the restless "Ich bin friedlos" to the serene "Friede, mein Herz." This symphony is a testament to Zemlinsky's ability to merge text and music into a cohesive and powerful whole.

In addition to the "Lyrische Symphonie," the album also includes a selection of orchestral preludes and interludes from Zemlinsky's operas. These pieces offer a glimpse into his operatic works, highlighting his skill in creating atmospheric and dramatic music. From the enchanting "Vorspiel" from "Sarema" to the intriguing "Zwischenspiel" from "Kleider machen Leute," these selections are a delight for both the ears and the imagination.

With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this album is a substantial exploration of Zemlinsky's music, providing a comprehensive overview of his compositional style and his contributions to the dark cabaret genre. Whether you're a longtime fan of Zemlinsky or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to captivate and engage you from start to finish.