Bloch: Schelomo & Voice in the Wilderness – Bruch: Kol Nidrei - Ernest Bloch

Immerse yourself in the rich, evocative sounds of Ernest Bloch's deeply personal and spiritually resonant compositions, paired with Max Bruch's timeless masterpiece, in this captivating album recorded in 2011 at the City Halls in Glasgow, Scotland. This recording features the extraordinary talents of cellist Natalie Clein, the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, and conductor Ilan Volkov.

Ernest Bloch, a Swiss-born composer of Jewish descent, drew heavily from his cultural heritage and personal experiences in his music. This album showcases three significant works from his 'Jewish cycle,' each composed during different phases of his life. "Schelomo," inspired by passages from Ecclesiastes, is a profound and lyrical exploration of the human condition, with the cello taking center stage in a role that is both deeply expressive and technically demanding. "From Jewish Life" is a suite of three pieces that evoke the spirit and traditions of Jewish life, while "Voice in the Wilderness" is a powerful, six-movement work that reflects Bloch's personal struggles and spiritual quests.

Complementing Bloch's works is Max Bruch's "Kol Nidrei," a hauntingly beautiful adagio for cello and orchestra that sets the traditional Jewish melody for the evening service on the Day of Atonement. This piece, along with Bloch's compositions, creates a cohesive and deeply moving exploration of Jewish music and spirituality.

Recorded in September 2011 and released on the Hyperion label in August 2012, this album offers a little over an hour of exquisite music, expertly performed and recorded. Whether you are a longtime fan of Bloch and Bruch or a newcomer to their works, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Ernest Bloch, born in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1880, was a composer of profound spiritual depth and a master of blending diverse cultural influences into his music. His works, deeply rooted in his Jewish heritage, reflect a unique fusion of European post-Romantic styles and the rich tapestry of his experiences across Israel, Switzerland, America, and the South Seas. Bloch's compositions, ranging from orchestral and chamber music to solo piano pieces, are marked by their individuality and emotional intensity. A prolific composer, Bloch also had a distinguished academic career, culminating in his role as Professor Emeritus at the University of California, Berkeley. His legacy continues to inspire, with enthusiasts worldwide celebrating his contributions through societies and performances dedicated to his music.