Braunfels: Konzert und andere Welt-Ersteinspielungen

Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Walter Braunfels with this captivating album, released on November 6, 2012, under the Oehms Classics label. This collection of chamber music masterpieces showcases Braunfels' genius, featuring a blend of orchestral and choral works that highlight his unique compositional style. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical experiences.

The centerpiece of the album is the Concerto, Op. 38, a three-movement work that includes a Fantasie, a Choral with Interludium, and a Fugue. This concerto is a testament to Braunfels' skill in weaving complex musical themes into a cohesive and engaging piece. The album also features the Toccata, Adagio and Fugue in F Minor, Op. 43, a work that demonstrates Braunfels' mastery of contrapuntal writing. Additionally, the Symphonic Variations on an old French children's song, Op. 15, adds a touch of whimsy and nostalgia to the collection.

Performances are brought to life by the exceptional talents of Iveta Apkalna, the Tölzer Knabenchor, and the Münchner Symphoniker, conducted by Hansjörg Albrecht. Each track is a testament to the collaborative effort and artistic vision that went into this recording. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a deep and rewarding listening experience.

Walter Braunfels, born in Frankfurt in 1882, was a pivotal figure in German music, renowned for his contributions as a composer, pianist, and music educator. Hailing from a musically inclined family, Braunfels' early education was nurtured by his mother, a great-niece of the celebrated composer Louis Spohr. His formal training began with piano studies under James Kwast at the Hoch Conservatory in Frankfurt, followed by composition lessons with Ludwig Thuille in Munich. Braunfels' career flourished between the two world wars, during which he was one of the most frequently performed opera composers of his time. His notable works include the opera "The Birds," based on Aristophanes' comedy, and a rich repertoire of orchestral, chamber, and piano pieces. Despite facing adversity during the Nazi era, when his music was banned and he was labeled a "half-Jew," Braunfels' legacy endures. He also served as the founding director of the Cologne Academy of Music until 1933. His compositions, steeped in the German Classical-Romantic tradition, continue to captivate audiences with their depth and emotional resonance.