Hindemith Conducts Hindemith

Paul Hindemith's 'Hindemith Conducts Hindemith' is a masterful compilation of the composer's most renowned works, showcasing his unique blend of classical and neoclassical styles. Released on 21 June 2019 by Urania Records, this extensive album spans two hours and 29 minutes, taking listeners on a journey through Hindemith's diverse compositional repertoire.

The album features an array of iconic pieces, including the 'Symphonia serena', 'Nobilissima visione Suite', 'Horn Concerto', and 'Symphony "Mathis der Maler"', each demonstrating Hindemith's technical prowess and innovative approach to classical music. The 'Theme & Variations "Die vier Temperamente"' and 'Symphonic Metamorphosis of Themes by Carl Maria von Weber' further exemplify his ability to craft intricate, nuanced compositions that push the boundaries of traditional classical forms.

With its rich, complex soundscapes and meticulous attention to detail, 'Hindemith Conducts Hindemith' is a testament to the composer's skill and artistry. As a conductor, Paul Hindemith brings his own works to life with precision and passion, resulting in an album that is both a tribute to his legacy and a celebration of his enduring influence on classical music. This remarkable collection is a must-listen for fans of Hindemith and classical music enthusiasts alike, offering a profound and deeply satisfying listening experience.

Paul Hindemith, born in 1895 in Hanau, Germany, was a prolific and versatile figure in the world of classical music, renowned for his compositions, conducting, and performances on the viola. Hindemith's career spanned two continents, with significant contributions made in both Europe and the United States. He is celebrated for his advocacy of the Neue Sachlichkeit style in the 1920s, which is evident in works like his "Kammermusik" series. His compositions often featured the viola and viola d'amore, showcasing his deep connection to the instrument he played professionally. Notable works include the song cycle "Das Marienleben," the opera "Mathis der Maler," and the oratorio "When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd," a poignant requiem based on Walt Whitman's poem.

Hindemith's life was marked by both artistic innovation and personal resilience. He founded the Amar Quartet in 1921, touring extensively across Europe. As political tensions rose in Germany, Hindemith and his wife emigrated to Switzerland and later to the United States, where he continued to compose, conduct, and teach. Despite being denounced by the Nazi regime, Hindemith's music remained deeply rooted in his German heritage, blending tonal craftsmanship with a modern sensibility. His later years in America saw him become one of the most performed European composers, teaching composition at Yale and leaving a lasting impact on the musical landscape. Hindemith's extensive output includes operas, ballets, concertos, and orchestral works, all of which reflect his unique voice and enduring legacy in classical music.