Charles Rosen Plays Webern

Dive into the intricate and avant-garde world of Anton Webern with "Charles Rosen Plays Webern," a captivating collection of the composer's most profound works. Released on Sony Classical in 1978, this album spans a mere 49 minutes but packs a punch with its rich tapestry of chamber music and atonal compositions. The album features a diverse range of pieces, from the delicate vocal works like "Fünf Lieder aus 'Der Siebente Ring,' Op. 3" and "Vier Lieder für Gesang und Klavier, Op. 12" to the intricate instrumental compositions such as "4 Pieces for Violin & Piano, Op. 7" and "Quartet, Op. 22."

Charles Rosen's masterful performance brings out the nuanced complexity of Webern's compositions, showcasing the composer's unique approach to atonality and his deep philosophical and aesthetic sensibilities. The album includes settings of poems by Stefan George and Hildegard Jone, highlighting Webern's ability to blend literary and musical expression. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a curious explorer of avant-garde music, this album offers a compelling journey through Webern's innovative and intellectually stimulating compositions.

Anton Webern, born in Vienna in 1883, was an Austrian composer and conductor whose innovative approach to music left an indelible mark on the 20th century. A key figure in the Second Viennese School, alongside Arnold Schoenberg and Alban Berg, Webern is renowned for his pioneering use of atonality and the twelve-tone technique. His compositions, often concise and structurally rigorous, reflect his deep study of both historical music and the avant-garde teachings of his time. Webern's works, primarily in the genres of avant-garde and chamber music, continue to inspire and challenge musicians and enthusiasts alike, offering a rich exploration of sound and form. His legacy is celebrated through his extensive catalogue of works, which remain as relevant and influential today as they were during his lifetime.