Berg: Violin Concerto, Three Pieces for Orchestra

Dive into the captivating world of Alban Berg with this exquisite album, released on September 30, 2022, by Chandos Records. This collection showcases Berg's profound musical genius, featuring a blend of orchestral and solo works that highlight his unique compositional style.

The album opens with Berg's Piano Sonata, Op. 1, orchestrated by the renowned Sir Andrew Davis, offering a fresh perspective on this early work. The Passacaglia, also orchestrated by Davis, follows, demonstrating Berg's mastery of form and emotion. The Three Orchestral Pieces, Op. 6, present a trio of contrasting movements—Präludium, Reigen, and Marsch—that showcase Berg's versatility and innovative spirit.

The centerpiece of the album is Berg's Violin Concerto, a deeply moving work dedicated to the memory of an angel. Performed by the acclaimed violinist James Ehnes, with Sir Andrew Davis conducting the BBC Symphony Orchestra, this concerto is a testament to Berg's ability to convey profound emotion through music. The concerto's two movements, Andante and Allegro, are performed with such sensitivity and technical brilliance that they are sure to leave a lasting impression.

With a total duration of 66 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Berg's orchestral and concerto works. The high-quality SACD recording ensures that every nuance of the performance is captured, providing an immersive listening experience. Whether you are a longtime fan of Alban Berg or a newcomer to his music, this album is a must-listen, offering a rich and rewarding journey through the works of one of the most influential composers of the 20th century.

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.