Cornelius: Complete Lieder, Vol. 1

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Peter Cornelius with the release of "Cornelius: Complete Lieder, Vol. 1." This captivating collection, released on Naxos in August 2013, offers a comprehensive journey through the early works of this German composer, showcasing his mastery of the Lied form. Spanning a little over an hour, this album is a treasure trove of musical gems, featuring a diverse range of songs that explore themes of love, longing, and consolation.

The album opens with Cornelius's Op. 1, a set of six Lieder that set the stage for the emotional depth and poetic sensitivity that characterize his work. From the haunting melodies of "Untreu" and "Veilchen" to the tender intimacy of "Wiegenlied" and "Schmetterling," these songs reveal Cornelius's ability to convey complex emotions with remarkable subtlety and grace.

The second set, "Trauer und Trost" (Mourning and Consolation), Op. 3, delves into the darker aspects of human experience, with songs that express grief, remembrance, and ultimately, consolation. The final song, "Trost," offers a sense of resolution and hope, providing a poignant conclusion to this deeply moving cycle.

The album also includes the charming "Brautlieder" (Bride's Songs), a set of six songs that celebrate the joy and anticipation of love and marriage. These songs, with their lively rhythms and vivid imagery, offer a delightful contrast to the more introspective pieces on the album.

In addition to these larger sets, the album features a selection of individual songs that showcase Cornelius's versatility and range. From the playful "Botschaft" (Message) to the tender "In der Ferne" (Far Away), these songs demonstrate Cornelius's ability to capture the nuances of human emotion with remarkable precision and sensitivity.

Performed by a stellar cast of singers and pianists, including Christina Landshamer, Markus Schäfer, Mathias Hausmann, and Matthias Veit, this album is a testament to the enduring power of Cornelius's music. Whether you are a longtime fan of the Lied form or a newcomer to this rich and varied genre, "Cornelius: Complete Lieder, Vol. 1" is sure to captivate and inspire. So sit back, relax, and let the enchanting melodies of Peter Cornelius transport you to a world of beauty, passion, and profound emotional depth.