Horizon Circled, Op. 196 / From Three Make Seven, Op. 171 / Von Vorn Herein, Op. 219

Immerse yourself in the intricate world of Ernst Krenek's compositional genius with this captivating collection of chamber music. Released on August 25, 1978, via Baroque Records, this album presents a trio of Krenek's seminal works: "Horizon Circled, Op. 196," "From Three Make Seven, Op. 171," and "Von Vorn Herein, Op. 219." Each piece is a testament to Krenek's mastery of form and his ability to push the boundaries of traditional chamber music.

"Horizon Circled, Op. 196" is a six-movement suite that explores themes of direction and perspective, with each part offering a unique sonic landscape. From the steady pulse of "Azimuth" to the soaring heights of "Zenith," this work is a journey through sound and space. "From Three Make Seven, Op. 171" is a playful exploration of musical mathematics, with three short movements that interlock and intertwine in unexpected ways. Finally, "Von Vorn Herein, Op. 219" is a single, sweeping movement that builds and builds, drawing the listener in with its irresistible momentum.

With a total runtime of 44 minutes, this album is a deep dive into the mind of one of the 20th century's most innovative composers. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Krenek's unique voice and unorthodox approach to composition are sure to captivate and inspire.

Ernst Krenek, born in Vienna in 1900, was a prolific and versatile Austrian-American composer whose career spanned over seven decades, reflecting the major musical trends of the 20th century. Krenek's oeuvre is a testament to his insatiable curiosity and innovative spirit, encompassing styles from neoromantic tonality and neoclassicism to atonality, serialism, and even jazz influences. He was a prominent exponent of the serial technique and wrote a significant number of works using the twelve-tone system. Krenek's contributions to the piano concerto repertoire are particularly notable, standing alongside those of Bartók and Prokofiev. Beyond his compositional work, Krenek was also a prolific writer, penning several influential books on music. His journey took him from Vienna and Berlin to various universities in the US and Canada, where he taught and continued to compose until his passing in 1991. Krenek's music offers a rich and diverse sonic landscape, inviting exploration and discovery.