Abrahamsen: String Quartet No. 1 "10 Preludes" & 6 Pieces for Horn Trio

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Hans Abrahamsen's early works, masterfully performed by Ensemble MidtVest. This album, released on Dacapo in 2017, is a chamber music gem that showcases Abrahamsen's unique compositional voice, characterized by its dark allure and innocent charm.

The album opens with Abrahamsen's Six Pieces for Horn Trio, a collection of six distinct movements that range from the serene and sustained Serenade to the mysterious and energetic Scherzo misterioso. Each piece offers a different emotional landscape, expertly navigated by Ensemble MidtVest.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Abrahamsen's String Quartet No. 1, subtitled "10 Preludes." This work is a series of ten short, interconnected movements that explore a wide range of moods and textures. The quartet is followed by Abrahamsen's transcriptions of Erik Satie's Gymnopédies and Carl Nielsen's Fantasy Pieces, which add a touch of classic elegance to the album.

Throughout the album, Ensemble MidtVest's precise and nuanced performances bring out the intricate details of Abrahamsen's music, making this a standout release for fans of contemporary chamber music. The album's total duration is 49 minutes, offering a concise yet satisfying exploration of Abrahamsen's early works.