Hindemith: Ludus Tonalis & Suite "1922"

Paul Hindemith's masterpiece, 'Hindemith: Ludus Tonalis & Suite "1922"', is a captivating classical piano album that showcases the composer's neoclassical genius. Released on 1 March 1996 under the Hyperion label, this 1 hour and 9-minute album is a must-listen for fans of intricate counterpoint and character pieces.

The album features two notable works: 'Ludus Tonalis' and 'Suite "1922"'. 'Ludus Tonalis', composed during Hindemith's American exile, is a series of 12 three-part fugues separated by interludes and framed by a preludium and a postludium. This work is a testament to Hindemith's skill in applying Baroque polyphonic techniques to 20th-century vocabulary, resulting in a unique sequence that contrasts strict counterpoint with a kaleidoscope of character pieces.

The 'Suite "1922"', on the other hand, is a fascinating example of Hindemith's early experimentation with popular music forms. Composed in 1922, this suite for solo piano features five movements, including 'Marsch', 'Shimmy', 'Nachtstück', 'Boston', and 'Ragtime'. These pieces demonstrate Hindemith's ability to blend different styles and create something entirely new and captivating.

Performed by the renowned pianist John McCabe, this album is a rare and exceptional recording of Hindemith's works. McCabe's interpretation brings out the variety and depth of the compositions, elevating the fugues beyond their surface level and characterising the interludes with nuance and sensitivity.

With its unique blend of neoclassical and classical piano elements, 'Hindemith: Ludus Tonalis & Suite "1922"' is an album that will appeal to fans of complex and beautiful music. Paul Hindemith's genius shines through in every note, making this album an essential listen for anyone interested in exploring the world of classical piano.

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.