Berio To Sing

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the avant-garde vocal masterpiece "Berio To Sing" by Luciano Berio, released on April 2, 2021, under the harmonia mundi label. This captivating album blends Berio's classic folk song arrangements from 1964 with four brand new compositions, showcasing his unparalleled genius in connecting the art of singing with the act of everyday communication.

Spanning a diverse range of genres and styles, the album features the renowned Les Cris de Paris ensemble, conducted by Geoffroy Jourdain, with the exceptional mezzo-soprano Lucile Richardot delivering a mesmerizing performance. The tracklist is a rich tapestry of works, including the evocative "Sequenza III," the haunting "Cries of London" series, and a selection of beautifully arranged folk songs from around the world. The album also includes Berio's unique interpretations of Beatles classics, such as "Michelle II," adding a touch of familiar melody to the avant-garde landscape.

With a duration of 58 minutes, "Berio To Sing" offers a profound exploration of the human voice and its expressive capabilities. Berio's compositions are known for their ability to evoke strong physical and emotional responses, making this album a compelling listen for both classical music enthusiasts and those seeking to explore the boundaries of vocal performance. Whether you're a longtime fan of Luciano Berio or new to his work, "Berio To Sing" promises an engaging and thought-provoking musical experience.

2 april 2021

2021 harmonia mundi

About Luciano Berio

Luciano Berio, a seminal figure in 20th-century music, was an Italian composer renowned for his innovative and experimental approach to composition. Born in 1925, Berio's work spanned a wide range of techniques, from serialism and electronic music to indeterminacy and the incorporation of spoken texts. His early influences included Igor Stravinsky, and his later works, such as the iconic 'Sinfonia,' are celebrated for their intellectual depth and visceral power. Berio was not just a composer but also a conductor and educator, founding the Juilliard Ensemble in New York City and delivering the prestigious Charles Eliot Norton Lectures at Harvard. His prolific career, which included a vast array of genres and styles, solidified his status as a leader of the international avant-garde, standing alongside figures like Pierre Boulez and György Ligeti. Berio's legacy endures through his groundbreaking compositions and his enduring influence on contemporary music.