Berg: Wozzeck

Experience the raw power and innovation of Alban Berg's seminal opera "Wozzeck" in this stunning 2018 recording. Composed in 1925, "Wozzeck" is a groundbreaking work that stands as one of the most significant operas of the 20th century. Berg's unflinching portrayal of violence, madness, and societal brutality is brought to life through a compelling score that blends lyrical expansiveness with dissonant harmony, reflecting the chaotic and tragic narrative inspired by Georg Büchner's revolutionary play.

This album features a stellar cast, including Peter Bronder, Audun Iversen, Claudia Mahnke, Martin Mitterrutzner, and Sebastian Weigle, under the baton of conductor Sebastian Weigle. The performance captures the essence of Berg's complex score, showcasing the opera's dramatic intensity and musical brilliance. With a running time of 1 hour and 32 minutes, this recording offers a comprehensive journey through the opera's three acts and fifteen scenes.

"Wozzeck" is not just an opera; it is a testament to Berg's revolutionary approach to music and his ability to convey deep human suffering through sound. The album's detailed libretto, based on Büchner's play, adds layers of depth to the storytelling, making it a rich and immersive experience for both opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike. This recording, released by Oehms Classics, is a testament to the enduring power of Berg's vision and the timeless relevance of "Wozzeck."

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.