Jean-Guihen Queyras, the renowned cellist, presents a captivating exploration of two seminal works in the chamber music repertoire with his album "Berg: Lyrische Suite & Schoenberg: Verklärte Nacht." Released in 2014 under the Harmonia Mundi label, this album offers a profound journey through the intricate compositions of Alban Berg and Arnold Schoenberg, performed with the Ensemble Resonanz.
The album features Berg's "Lyrische Suite," a work that Berg initially composed for string quartet and later orchestrated for strings. This suite is deeply personal, with its themes reflecting Berg's tumultuous relationship with Hanna Fuchs. The six movements of the suite, ranging from the playful "Allegretto giovale" to the intense "Adagio appassionato," showcase Berg's mastery of expression and form.
Schoenberg's "Verklärte Nacht," inspired by Richard Dehmel's poem of the same name, follows Berg's suite. This string sextet explores themes of redemption and forgiveness, with its lush harmonies and dramatic shifts in mood. The work is a testament to Schoenberg's early Romantic style, providing a stark contrast to the atonal compositions for which he is better known.
Jean-Guihen Queyras and the Ensemble Resonanz deliver a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive. Their interpretation brings out the rich textures and intricate motifs of these works, offering listeners a fresh perspective on these classic pieces. With a duration of just under an hour, this album is a compelling addition to any classical music collection, showcasing the artistry of Queyras and the Ensemble Resonanz.
Vinylscout