Holliger: Choral Utopia

Album Description

"Choral Utopia" is a captivating collection of choral works by the renowned Swiss composer and oboist, Heinz Holliger. Released in 2018 on the Wergo label, this album is a testament to Holliger's masterful compositional skills and his ability to evoke profound atmospheres through vocal music. The album features the SWR Vokalensemble, conducted by Marcus Creed, delivering powerful and nuanced performances that bring Holliger's intricate compositions to life.

The album spans a diverse range of themes and poetic inspirations, with texts drawn from the works of David Rokeah and Kurt Marti. The pieces are divided into several sections, including "Shir Shavur. Zerbrochenes Lied" (a cycle of 12 poems by David Rokeah), "Hölle Himmel" (a motet based on poems by Kurt Marti), and "Rosa Loui" (four poems by Kurt Marti in Bernese dialect). Each section offers a unique sonic landscape, showcasing Holliger's versatility and depth as a composer.

"Choral Utopia" is a rich tapestry of choral music that explores the boundaries of vocal expression. The album's duration of 75 minutes allows for an immersive experience, with each track building upon the last to create a cohesive and engaging narrative. From the delicate intricacies of "Rosen lassen Nacht erglühn" to the powerful declarations of "Friedensfragen," the album is a journey through the human experience, as seen through the lens of Holliger's unique musical language.

This album is a significant addition to the discography of both Heinz Holliger and the SWR Vokalensemble, who have previously won prestigious awards such as the Preis der deutschen Schallplattenkritik and ECHO Klassik. "Choral Utopia" is a striking example of contemporary choral music at its finest, offering both intellectual stimulation and aesthetic pleasure. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

30 maart 2018

(P) 2018 wergo

About Heinz Holliger

Heinz Holliger, born in Switzerland in 1939, is a multifaceted figure in the world of classical music, renowned as a composer, virtuoso oboist, and conductor. His extraordinary versatility and technical prowess have established him as one of the most prominent oboists of his generation. Holliger's repertoire spans Baroque and Classical masterpieces, as well as lesser-known Romantic works and his own compositions. He has collaborated with his wife, harpist Ursula Holliger, to perform contemporary pieces, and has inspired numerous composers, including Messiaen, Berio, and Stockhausen, to create works specifically for him.

As a composer, Holliger is known for his uncompromising avant-garde style, with a catalog that includes operas such as "Schneewittchen" (1998) and "Lunea," as well as a wide range of chamber and orchestral works. His music often draws inspiration from poets grappling with themes of insanity and mortality. Holliger's journey in music began with studies at the conservatories of Bern and Basel, followed by advanced training in Paris with renowned musicians like Pierre Pierlot and Yvonne Lefébure. His career has seen him perform with leading orchestras and ensembles worldwide, earning him numerous awards and accolades. Whether conducting, composing, or performing, Heinz Holliger's contributions to the classical music landscape are both profound and enduring.