Hieroglyphen der Nacht

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Valentin Silvestrov's "Hieroglyphen der Nacht," a captivating collection of compositions for solo violoncello and duo cello performances. Released in 2017 to celebrate the Ukrainian composer's 80th birthday, this album is a testament to Silvestrov's unique musical language, which blends introspection, nostalgia, and a deep sense of spirituality.

The album features the exquisite playing of German cellist Anja Lechner, who has a long-standing association with Silvestrov's music. Lechner's delicate touch and profound interpretive skills bring out the subtle nuances and haunting beauty of Silvestrov's compositions. She is joined by Agnès Vesterman, another accomplished cellist, for the duo pieces, creating a rich and resonant sound that fills the listener's space.

"Hieroglyphen der Nacht" showcases a variety of pieces, including the titular "Drei Stücke" (Three Pieces), which explores themes of night, echoes of waltzes, and sarabandes. The album also includes elegies, serenades, and other evocative works that reflect Silvestrov's distinctive style. The recording, made in December 2013 at the Auditorio Stelio Molo RSI in Lugano, captures the intimate and reflective nature of the music with stunning clarity.

The album's cover art, featuring hieroglyphs, hints at the ancient and mystical qualities of the music within. Silvestrov's compositions, like hieroglyphs, imply movement and tell stories, reflecting human and spiritual connections. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Silvestrov's work or a newcomer to his music, "Hieroglyphen der Nacht" offers a profound and engaging listening experience. The album's duration of one hour and five minutes provides ample time to explore the depths of Silvestrov's musical vision.

Valentin Silvestrov, born in Kyiv in 1937, is a Ukrainian composer and pianist whose contemporary classical music has earned him international acclaim. Beginning his musical journey at the age of 15, Silvestrov's path was unconventional, studying civil engineering by day and piano by night before dedicating himself fully to composition. His works, ranging from avant-garde to sacred music, are known for their unique blend of traditional tonal and modal techniques, creating a delicate tapestry of dramatic and emotional textures. Silvestrov's music is often described as mentally challenging yet aurally agreeable, with a timeless quality that resonates deeply with audiences. Throughout his career, he has undergone significant stylistic shifts, moving from experimental avant-garde to a quieter, more harmonious style that he sees as a transition from the 20th to the 21st century. His compositions, such as the heart-wrenching "Hymn" and his symphonies, reflect his deep connection to the past and his ability to evoke a sense of reminiscence. Despite his profound impact on the music world, Silvestrov remains a quiet yet major voice in contemporary classical music.