Holliger: Lunea

Album Description

Heinz Holliger's "Lunea" is a profound and introspective exploration of the final days of the German Romantic poet Nikolaus Lenau. This two-disc opera, released on April 29, 2022, under the ECM New Series label, is a testament to Holliger's mastery of chamber music and his ability to weave intricate narratives through sound. The album spans a total of 102 minutes, divided into 23 meticulously crafted tracks, each titled "Lunea (Lenau-Szenen in 23 Lebensblättern)" followed by a sequential number.

Premiered to critical acclaim at Opernhaus Zurich, "Lunea" interweaves the strands of Lenau's life and mind, offering a deep dive into the poet's inner world. Holliger's composition is a blend of poetic lyricism and dramatic intensity, showcasing his unique voice in the realm of contemporary classical music. The album features a rich tapestry of musical textures, from delicate piano passages to powerful vocal performances, all executed with Holliger's signature precision and depth.

"Lunea" is not just an opera; it is a journey through the life and mind of one of Germany's most celebrated poets. Holliger's ability to translate Lenau's poetry into a musical language that is both accessible and profound makes this album a standout in his discography. Whether you are a fan of classical music, chamber music, or simply appreciate a well-crafted narrative, "Lunea" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

22 april 2022

℗ 2022 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

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.