Dive into the avant-garde world of Olivier Greif with his compelling work, "The Battle of Agincourt - Quatuor à Cordes No. 2." Released on December 26, 2011, this album is a testament to Greif's unique compositional style, blending classical structure with modern sensibilities. The album features a captivating mix of sonatas and string quartets, performed with exquisite precision by Ensemble Syntonia.
The album opens with the "Sonate pour 2 violoncelles," a piece that showcases Greif's mastery of the cello, with movements ranging from the contemplative "Molto lento, quasi cadenza" to the lively "Rondeau de la 'Belle Dame sans Merci!'" The second half of the album is dedicated to the "Quatuor à cordes No. 2, Op. 312," a string quartet that explores themes of mortality and reflection, as suggested by titles like "The prey of worms" and "Poor soul, the centre of my sinful earth."
With a duration of 56 minutes, this album is a rich exploration of Greif's artistic vision, offering a deep dive into his avant-garde compositions. Whether you're a fan of classical music or looking to explore the boundaries of modern composition, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. The intricate layering of strings and the evocative themes make it a standout release in Greif's discography.
Olivier Greif, born in Paris in 1950, was a French composer of Polish-Jewish heritage whose life and work were deeply influenced by his father's survival of Auschwitz. This profound personal history inspired Greif to create powerful Holocaust-themed compositions, including the haunting "Todesfuge" and the evocative song cycle "Lettres de Westerbork," which sets letters written by Etty Hillesum. Greif's music is a compelling blend of late 20th-century tonal styles, reminiscent of Benjamin Britten and Dmitri Shostakovich, with a strong folk music element and a gestural affinity for Franz Liszt. His compositions often carry a dark, introspective tone, favoring minor modes even within major tonal contexts. A child prodigy, Greif began his musical journey at the age of three and was admitted to the Paris National Conservatory at just ten years old. His extensive body of work includes 23 piano sonatas and the moving "Sonate de Requiem" for cello and piano. Greif's spiritual journey also led him to follow the teachings of Hindu teacher Sri Chinmoy from 1976 onward, adding a layer of spiritual depth to his artistic expression.
270 Followers
Compare reliable providers and find the cheapest option. View the current prices below.
Price unknown - In most cases, this means the album isn't available on LP or is no longer offered on LP by our trusted sellers.
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known