Dive into the profound and politically charged world of Hans Werner Henze's "Das Floß der Medusa," a masterful oratorio that stands as a testament to the composer's prowess and social consciousness. Released on SWR Classic in 2019, this avant-garde and neoclassical work is a gripping exploration of human survival and societal brutality, set against the backdrop of the infamous Méduse incident.
Comprising 17 tracks, "Das Floß der Medusa" unfolds over nearly an hour and nine minutes, each segment meticulously crafted to tell a harrowing tale of desperation and resilience. The album begins with "Prolog des Charon" and weaves through a series of powerful movements, including "Journal der Überfahrt," "Die Ballade vom Verrat," and "Fuge der Überlebenden und Ankündigung der Rettung," culminating in a dramatic finale.
Hans Werner Henze, one of the most prolific German composers of the contemporary era, brings his unique vision to life with a libretto by Ernst Schnabel. The oratorio, originally slated for premiere in 1968, was delayed due to political controversy, adding layers of intrigue to its already compelling narrative. This 2019 recording is the first new performance since the original broadcast, capturing the raw intensity and relevance of Henze's composition.
"Das Floß der Medusa" is not just a musical experience but a deep dive into the darker aspects of human nature, set against the stark reality of survival on the high seas. The album's avant-garde and neoclassical elements blend seamlessly, creating a sonic landscape that is both haunting and beautiful. Whether you're a fan of Henze's work or new to his compositions, this album offers a powerful and unforgettable listening experience.
2019 SWR Classic2019 SWR Classic
Tracks
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 1, Prolog des CharonHans Werner Henze, Peter Stein, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 2, MottoHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, Peter Schone, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 3, Ordre und MusterrolleHans Werner Henze, Peter Stein, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 4, Journal der ÜberfahrtHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, Peter Schone, Peter Stein, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 5, Eine AntwortHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 6, Versuche zur RettungHans Werner Henze, Peter Schone, Peter Stein, Camilla Nylund, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 7, Die AusschiffungHans Werner Henze, Peter Stein, Peter Schone, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 8, Ballade vom VerratHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, Peter Schone, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 9, Gesang mit neuen StimmenHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, Peter Schone, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 10, Answeisungen für den zweiten TagHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, Peter Schone, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 11, Feststellung der LageHans Werner Henze, Peter Stein, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 12, MottoHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, Peter Schone, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 13, Appell unter dem MondeHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, Peter Schone, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 14, Die Rechnung zum TodeHans Werner Henze, Peter Schone, Peter Stein, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 15, Die Ballade vom Mann auf dem FloßHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, Peter Schone, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 16, Fuge der Überlebenden und Ankündigung der RettungHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, Peter Schone, Peter Stein, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Das Floß der Medusa: No. 18, FinaleHans Werner Henze, Camilla Nylund, Peter Schone, Peter Stein, SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, WDR Rundfunkchor Köln, Freiburger Domsingknaben, SWR Symphonieorchester, Peter Eötvös
Hans Werner Henze was a German composer whose extensive body of work is a testament to his eclectic tastes and open-minded approach to music. Throughout his career, Henze drew inspiration from a wide range of influences, including serialism, atonality, the works of Igor Stravinsky, Italian and Arabic music, and even jazz. This diverse palette of inspirations is reflected in his compositions, which span various genres and styles, with a particular emphasis on avant-garde and neoclassical music. Henze's stage works, in particular, showcase his lifelong dedication to creating music for the theater, offering audiences a rich and immersive experience that goes beyond the ordinary. His unique blend of influences and commitment to innovation make Hans Werner Henze a captivating figure in the world of classical music.
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Hans Werner Henze
