Brahms: Alt-Rhapsodie, Nänie, Triumphlied & Schiksalslied

Experience the profound and evocative choral works of Johannes Brahms in this meticulously crafted album, set to release on May 14, 2025, under the Warner Classics label. This collection, spanning approximately 65 minutes, showcases Brahms' mastery of classical composition, featuring some of his most revered vocal and orchestral pieces.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Alto Rhapsody, Op. 53," a work that highlights the rich, expressive range of the alto voice against a lush orchestral backdrop. Brahms' "Nänie, Op. 82," a poignant lament for the loss of a young life, follows, demonstrating the composer's ability to convey deep sorrow and reflection through music.

The triumphant "Triumphlied, Op. 55" is presented in its entirety, a grand celebration of victory and praise that showcases Brahms' skill in composing for large-scale choral and orchestral forces. The album also includes "Hyperions Schicksalslied, Op. 54," a profound meditation on fate and human existence, featuring the contrasting movements "Ihr wandelt droben im Licht" and "Doch uns ist gegeben."

This album is a testament to Brahms' enduring legacy in the classical music canon, offering both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the composer's rich harmonic language and profound musical insights. The performances are conducted with precision and passion, bringing out the full depth and beauty of Brahms' compositions.

Johannes Brahms, born in Hamburg in 1833, stands as one of the titans of classical music, renowned for his profound contributions to the Romantic era. A virtuoso pianist and conductor, Brahms' compositions span symphonies, concertos, chamber music, and choral works, each marked by his distinctive rhythmic vitality and expressive contrapuntal textures. His music, deeply rooted in the traditions of Bach, Beethoven, and Schumann, showcases a masterful blend of historical techniques and innovative dissonance. Brahms' personal life, including his deep friendship with Robert and Clara Schumann, adds a rich layer to his legacy. His works, such as the Academic Festival Overture and the German Requiem, continue to captivate audiences worldwide, cementing his place as one of the most revered composers in the history of music.