Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Danish Romanticism with Niels Gade's "Erlkönigs Tochter," a captivating cantata that showcases the composer's mastery of dramatic storytelling. Originally composed in 1854, this reimagined 1864 version, released on Dacapo in 2018, is a testament to Gade's enduring legacy and his ability to weave intricate narratives through music.
"Erlkönigs Tochter," also known as "Elverskud" or "The Elf-King's Daughter," draws inspiration from Danish medieval ballads, transporting listeners to a realm of myth and folklore. The cantata is divided into three parts, each exploring the tale of Herr Oluf and his encounters with the supernatural. With a running time of just over 42 minutes, the album is a concise yet powerful exploration of Gade's musical prowess.
The album features a stellar cast of performers, including Sophie Junker, Ivonne Fuchs, and Lars Ulrik Mortensen, who bring the dramatic narrative to life with their expressive performances. From the haunting prologue to the resolute epilogue, each track is a masterclass in vocal technique and musical storytelling.
Niels Gade, a prominent figure in the Danish musical scene, is celebrated for his ability to blend nationalistic themes with classical structures. "Erlkönigs Tochter" is a shining example of his unique style, making it an essential addition to any classical music collection. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Gade's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
2018 Dacapo2018 Dacapo
Tracks
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30 (1864 Version): Prologue. Herr Oluf Abends hielt an sein RossNiels Gade, Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30, Pt. 1 (1864 Version): No. 1, In's blaue Meer die Sonne sinktNiels Gade, Ivonne Fuchs, Johannes Weisser, Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30, Pt. 1 (1864 Version): No. 2, So oft mein Auge die Fluren schautNiels Gade, Johannes Weisser, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30, Pt. 1 (1864 Version): No. 3, Zäum' auf mein Ross mit gold'ner KettNiels Gade, Ivonne Fuchs, Johannes Weisser, Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30, Pt. 2 (1864 Version): No. 4, Nacht, o wie stille!Niels Gade, Johannes Weisser, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30, Pt. 2 (1864 Version): No. 5, Leicht nun schwebt der Tanz durch die Haine!Niels Gade, Johannes Weisser, Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30, Pt. 2 (1864 Version): No. 6, Willkommen, Herr OlufNiels Gade, Sophie Junker, Johannes Weisser, Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30, Pt. 3 (1864 Version): No. 7, Morgengesang. Im Osten geht die Sonne aufNiels Gade, Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30, Pt. 3 (1864 Version): No. 8, Ich wartet' an des Hauses ThürNiels Gade, Ivonne Fuchs, Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30, Pt. 3 (1864 Version): No. 9, Hör' du, Herr Oluf, sag' an mir gleich!Niels Gade, Ivonne Fuchs, Johannes Weisser, Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
Erlkönigs Tochter, Op. 30 (1864 Version): Epilogue. Drum rath' ich jedem Jüngling anNiels Gade, Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Concerto Copenhagen, Lars Ulrik Mortensen
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