Gassenhauer

Album Description

Experience the captivating artistry of Nils Mönkemeyer, Maximilian Hornung, and Nicholas Rimmer in their 2013 release, "Gassenhauer." This exquisite chamber music album, released on Sony Classical, showcases the trio's exceptional talent and deep musical connection. The album features a blend of classical masterpieces and lesser-known gems, performed with precision and passion.

The centerpiece of the album is Beethoven's Trio in B-Flat Major, Op. 11, "Gassenhauertrio," where Mönkemeyer's viola takes the place of the traditional clarinet or violin, offering a fresh and engaging interpretation. The trio's performance is marked by its pure tone and the ability to generate excitement throughout the piece.

In addition to Beethoven, the album includes works by Brahms, Dvorak, and Tchaikovsky, among others. Each piece is performed with a high level of technical skill and musicality, making this album a standout in the world of classical music. The album's duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes allows for a satisfying and immersive listening experience.

Nils Mönkemeyer, a renowned violist, is joined by Maximilian Hornung on cello and Nicholas Rimmer on piano. Together, they create a rich and dynamic sound that brings these classical works to life. The album is a testament to their individual talents and their collective ability to create a cohesive and engaging musical experience.

"Gassenhauer" is a must-listen for fans of chamber music and classical music enthusiasts alike. The album's diverse repertoire and the trio's exceptional performances make it a valuable addition to any music collection.

19 aug 2013

(P) 2013 Sony Music Entertainment Germany GmbH

About Nils Mönkemeyer

Nils Mönkemeyer is a renowned German violist celebrated for his versatility and virtuosity across a wide range of musical styles and genres. Born in 1978, Mönkemeyer has earned international acclaim through his captivating performances and numerous award-winning recordings. His discography includes a diverse array of viola literature and innovative arrangements that have significantly elevated the instrument's solo repertoire.

Mönkemeyer's career highlights include premieres of contemporary works, such as Dieter Ammann's Viola Concerto, and collaborations with esteemed musicians like Viktoria Mullova. He has performed with leading orchestras worldwide, including the Sinfonieorchester Basel, Philharmonia Zurich, and Sapporo Symphony Orchestra.

In addition to his performing career, Mönkemeyer is deeply committed to education and community engagement. He has been a professor at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Munich since 2011 and founded the "Klassik für Alle" chamber music festival in collaboration with Caritas Bonn. This festival aims to make classical music accessible to a broader audience and support social music projects.

Mönkemeyer plays a viola crafted by Philipp Augustin, and his performances are noted for the rich and varied sounds he draws from his instrument. His repertoire spans from Spanish Baroque music to modern compositions, showcasing the viola's expressive potential. Mönkemeyer's passion for music and teaching is evident in his dynamic performances and dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians.