Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Hugo Alfvén with "At Home with Hugo Alfvén: Songs & Piano Pieces," a captivating collection of the Swedish composer's most intimate and expressive works. Released on May 6, 2022, by BIS, this album spans a little over an hour and seven minutes, offering a rich tapestry of songs and piano pieces that showcase Alfvén's unique musical voice.
The album opens with "Aftonen," a solo voice and piano arrangement that sets the tone for the journey ahead. It continues with "7 Dikter av Ernest Thiel, Op. 28," a series of seven songs that beautifully blend Alfvén's music with the poetry of Ernest Thiel. Each song, from the heartfelt "Djupt hos friborna människor bor" to the joyous "Se, du kom med jubel och sång i hågen," reveals Alfvén's mastery of vocal composition.
The album also features "4 Låtar från Leksand," a set of four pieces inspired by traditional Swedish folk tunes, arranged by L. Mats. These pieces, including the lively "Gånglåt" and the graceful "Skänklåt," offer a glimpse into Alfvén's connection to his cultural roots.
"3 Österlingsånger, Op. 22," presented here in a version for voice and piano, showcases Alfvén's ability to convey deep emotion through his music. The pieces "Bön," "Pioner," and "Minnesskrift" are particularly moving, each telling a story of faith, courage, and remembrance.
The piano pieces in the album, such as "Skärgårdsbilder, Op. 17" and "2 Lyriska stämningar, Op. 8," highlight Alfvén's skill in creating evocative and atmospheric music. From the shimmering "Solglitter" to the haunting "Svarta rosor," these pieces are a testament to Alfvén's versatility and artistry.
The album concludes with "Så tag mit hjerte," a powerful and poignant piece that leaves a lasting impression. Throughout the album, Hugo Alfvén's music comes alive, offering a deeply personal and engaging experience for both new and longtime fans of his work.
Vinylscout