Alban Berg's 'Berg Complete Songs' is a captivating collection of vocal works, showcasing the composer's mastery of lyrical expression. Released on 1 December 2019 by Brilliant Classics, this album spans 1 hour and 36 minutes, featuring a vast array of songs that delve into the depths of human emotion.
The album is dominated by Berg's 'Jugendlieder', a series of 50 songs that demonstrate his early experimentation with tonality and poetic themes. From the serene 'Heiliger Himmel' to the poignant 'Fraue, du süße', each piece offers a unique glimpse into Berg's artistic development. His operatic flair is evident throughout, with intricate melodies and harmonies that underscore the emotional intensity of the lyrics.
As a composer often associated with the operatic genre, Berg's songs exhibit a dramatic quality, with each piece telling a distinct story or conveying a particular mood. The 'Jugendlieder' series is a testament to Berg's ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable.
With 'Berg Complete Songs', listeners are treated to a comprehensive overview of the composer's vocal output, highlighting his innovative approach to songwriting and his profound understanding of the human experience. This album is a must-listen for fans of Alban Berg and opera enthusiasts alike, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience that showcases the composer's remarkable artistry.
2019 Brilliant Classics2019 Brilliant Classics
Tracks
Jugendlieder: I. Heiliger HimmelAlban Berg, Mauro Borgioni, Filippo Farinelli
Jugendlieder: II. HerbstgefühlAlban Berg, Filippo Farinelli, Mauro Borgioni
Jugendlieder: III. Unter der LindeAlban Berg, Filippo Farinelli, Mauro Borgioni
Jugendlieder: IV. SpielleuteAlban Berg, Filippo Farinelli, Mauro Borgioni
Jugendlieder: V. Wo der Goldregen stehtAlban Berg, Filippo Farinelli, Mauro Borgioni
Jugendlieder: VI. Lied der SchiffermädelsAlban Berg, Filippo Farinelli, Elisabetta Lombardi
Jugendlieder: VII. AbschiedAlban Berg, Filippo Farinelli, Mauro Borgioni
Jugendlieder: VIII. LiebesliedAlban Berg, Filippo Farinelli, Mauro Borgioni
Jugendlieder: IX. Über meinen NächtenAlban Berg, Filippo Farinelli, Mark Milhofer
Alban Berg, a pivotal figure of the Second Viennese School, is renowned for his unique compositional style that seamlessly blends Romantic lyricism with the innovative twelve-tone technique. Born Alban Maria Johannes Berg, this Austrian composer left an indelible mark on 20th-century music despite his relatively small output. His works, such as the "Three Pieces for Orchestra," "Lyric Suite," and the poignant "Violin Concerto," are celebrated for their profound emotional depth and structural complexity. Berg's compositions often explore "entire worlds of emotion and structure," making each piece a journey of discovery. His collaboration with Arnold Schoenberg, whom he studied under from 1904 to 1910, significantly influenced his musical development. Berg's operatic works, including his masterpiece "Wozzeck," are particularly notable for their expressive power and psychological insight. Whether you're exploring his orchestral works, chamber music, or vocal compositions, Berg's music promises an immersive experience that resonates long after the final note.
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Alban Berg
