Dive into the rich and intricate world of Paul Hindemith with this captivating album, featuring two of his most significant orchestral works: "Symphonia Serena" and "Die Harmonie der Welt." Released in 1993 on the prestigious Chandos label, this recording showcases the BBC Philharmonic under the baton of Yan Pascal Tortelier, delivering a performance that is both powerful and nuanced.
"Symphonia Serena," composed in 1946, is a four-movement work that reflects Hindemith's neoclassical style, blending traditional forms with a modern sensibility. The symphony begins with a lively, moderately fast movement that sets the stage for the intricate interplay of themes and textures that follow. The second movement, "Geschwindmarsch by Beethoven," is a playful homage to the classical master, while the third movement offers a quiet, introspective colloquy. The finale is a joyous, gay celebration that brings the symphony to a triumphant close.
"Die Harmonie der Welt," completed in 1951, is Hindemith's penultimate opera and is inspired by the life of the Renaissance astronomer Johannes Kepler. This symphony is a profound exploration of the harmony between the cosmos and human experience, reflecting Hindemith's deep interest in both science and music. The three movements—"Musica Instrumentalis," "Musica Humana," and "Musica Mundana"—each delve into different aspects of this harmony, from the mechanical to the spiritual.
This album offers a comprehensive introduction to Hindemith's later style, characterized by its polyphonic complexity and rich harmonic language. The recording quality is excellent, and the sleevenotes include Hindemith's own musical handwriting, providing valuable insights into his creative process. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Hindemith's music or a newcomer to his work, this album is a rewarding listening experience that highlights the composer's unique vision and mastery of orchestration.
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.
22,140 Followers
Compare reliable providers and find the cheapest option. View the current prices below.
Price unknown - In most cases, this means the album isn't available on LP or is no longer offered on LP by our trusted sellers.
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known
No price known