Boulez A-Z: Bartók

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse world of Béla Bartók with "Boulez A-Z: Bartók," a monumental 87-track collection set to release on February 1, 2025, via Deutsche Grammophon. This extensive compilation spans over four hours and eighteen minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through the genius of one of the 20th century's most influential composers, pianists, and ethnomusicologists.

The album features a wide array of Bartók's works, from his orchestral masterpieces like the "Concerto for Orchestra" and "Music for Strings, Percussion & Celesta" to his evocative ballet scores such as "The Miraculous Mandarin" and "The Wooden Prince." Each piece showcases Bartók's unique blend of folk influences, innovative harmonies, and rhythmic complexity, providing a deep dive into his distinctive compositional style.

Highlights include the dynamic "Dance Suite," the hauntingly beautiful "Cantata Profana," and the lively "Hungarian Sketches," each offering a glimpse into Bartók's profound musical imagination. The collection also includes lesser-known gems like the "2 Pictures" and the "Divertimento for Strings," further enriching the listening experience.

Conducted by the legendary Pierre Boulez, this album is a testament to Bartók's enduring legacy and his impact on classical music. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to Bartók's work, "Boulez A-Z: Bartók" is an essential addition to any classical music library, offering a rich tapestry of sounds and styles that reflect the composer's unparalleled genius.

1 feb 2025

℗ 2025 Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Béla Bartók

Béla Bartók, born in 1881 in what is now Romania, was a titan of 20th-century classical music, renowned for his compositions that seamlessly blend Hungarian folk music with modern classical structures. A child prodigy, Bartók began playing the piano at the age of five, showcasing his extraordinary musical aptitude from an early age. His career spanned multiple roles—he was a composer, pianist, and ethnomusicologist, deeply committed to preserving and studying the folk music of Central Europe.

Bartók's compositions are celebrated for their unique blend of traditional Hungarian melodies and innovative harmonic techniques, making him one of the most influential figures in neoclassical music. His works, which include orchestral pieces, string quartets, piano solos, and operatic stage works, are known for their emotional depth and technical brilliance. Among his most famous works are his string quartets, piano concertos, and the monumental "Music for Strings, Percussion, and Celesta."

Beyond his musical genius, Bartók was a dedicated educator, teaching at the prestigious Zeneakadémia in Budapest. His legacy endures not only through his compositions but also through his extensive collection of folk music, which has inspired generations of musicians. Bartók's impact on the world of classical music is immeasurable, and his works continue to captivate audiences with their timeless beauty and innovation.