Gerhard: The Plague

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the hauntingly evocative world of Roberto Gerhard's "The Plague - Epithalamion," a masterful orchestral work that blends the grim narrative of Albert Camus' "The Plague" with the joyous celebration of love in "Epithalamion." Released in 1996 under the Naïve Classique label, this album is a profound exploration of human resilience and the cyclical nature of life and death.

Comprising nine movements titled "The Plague" and a concluding "Epithalamion," the album is a gripping journey through the stages of a city's struggle with an epidemic. Each movement is a vivid musical depiction, from the initial outbreak and the city's response to the sudden cessation of the plague and the subsequent celebration of life. The final piece, "Epithalamion," serves as a triumphant coda, celebrating love and renewal.

Composed by Roberto Gerhard, a Catalan composer known for his innovative and expressive style, this album showcases his ability to convey complex narratives through music. The performance, conducted by Edmon Colomer, brings out the depth and nuance of Gerhard's score, making this a compelling listen for fans of orchestral and narrative music.

With a duration of approximately 68 minutes, "The Plague - Epithalamion" is a substantial and engaging work that demands attention and rewards repeated listening. The album is a testament to Gerhard's compositional prowess and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving.

1 jan 1996

2000 Auvidis

Auvidis

About Roberto Gerhard

Roberto Gerhard, born in 1896 in Valls, Catalonia, was a pioneering composer who bridged the musical traditions of Spain and Britain. Initially studying piano with the renowned Enrique Granados and composition with Felipe Pedrell, Gerhard's musical journey took a significant turn when he became a pupil of Arnold Schoenberg in Vienna and Berlin. This exposure to Schoenberg's innovative techniques deeply influenced Gerhard's own compositional style, leading him to become a central figure in the Catalan avant-garde upon his return to Barcelona in 1928.

Gerhard's music is a rich tapestry of influences, blending Catalan folk music with modern tonal and serial styles. His works span a wide range of genres, including ballets, operas, symphonies, and groundbreaking electronic compositions. He was one of the first electronic composers based in the UK, pushing the boundaries of what music could be. Throughout his career, Gerhard collaborated with notable figures such as Pablo Casals and Joan Miró, further enriching his artistic legacy. His contributions to the world of music are celebrated for their innovation and cultural depth, making Roberto Gerhard one of the most prominent Spanish composers of the 20th century.