Hans Abrahamsen's "Let Me Tell You" is a captivating orchestral song cycle that brings to life the hauntingly beautiful text from Paul Griffiths' 2008 novel of the same name. This evocative work, composed for soprano and orchestra, has garnered significant acclaim, including the Nordic Council Music Prize 2016, the Grawemeyer Award, and the Royal Philharmonic Society Award. The album features the extraordinary Canadian soprano Barbara Hannigan, accompanied by the Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks, conducted by the esteemed Andris Nelsons.
"Let Me Tell You" is a profound exploration of memory, identity, and the fragmented nature of human experience, inspired by the character of Ophelia from Shakespeare's "Hamlet." The song cycle is divided into three parts, each offering a unique perspective on the narrative. The first part delves into the past, the second part reflects on the present, and the third part looks towards the future. The album's duration is a concise yet impactful 32 minutes, making it a compelling listen from start to finish.
This recording, released on the Winter and Winter label, showcases Abrahamsen's masterful compositional skills and Hannigan's extraordinary vocal prowess. The collaboration between these artists results in a performance that is both technically brilliant and deeply moving. "Let Me Tell You" is a testament to the power of storytelling through music and a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary classical music.
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