Leoš Janáček's poignant and deeply personal piano cycles, On an Overgrown Path and In the Mists, are beautifully reimagined for string quartet in this stunning album, released on 2 February 2018 by ArcoDiva. The album, which spans 1 hour and 11 minutes, is a masterful interpretation of Janáček's original works, showcasing the composer's unique and recognisable language.
On an Overgrown Path, composed between 1901 and 1911, is a deeply nostalgic and introspective work, with Janáček himself describing the pieces as containing "distant reminiscences" of his childhood and reflections on the death of his daughter Olga in 1903. The cycle's 15 pieces, arranged for string quartet by J. Burghauser and T. Ille, are characterised by short, aphoristic motives that form the basis of a highly dramatic discourse.
In the Mists, composed in 1912, is a equally powerful and emotional work, marked by deep melancholy and passion. The four pieces that make up the cycle are beautifully arranged for string quartet by T. Ille, bringing a new level of depth and complexity to Janáček's original compositions.
Throughout the album, Janáček's highly personal and recognisable style shines through, with the string quartet arrangements adding a new layer of nuance and emotion to the original works. This album is a must-listen for fans of chamber music and Janáček's unique compositional voice. With its beautiful arrangements and masterful performances, it is a testament to the timelessness and beauty of Janáček's music.
2018 ArcoDiva2018 ArcoDiva
Tracks
On the Overgrown Path, Book 1, JW VIII/17 (Arr. J. Burghauser for String Quartet): No. 1, Our EveningsLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 1, JW VIII/17 (Arr. J. Burghauser for String Quartet): No. 2, A Blown Away LeafLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 1, JW VIII/17 (Arr. J. Burghauser for String Quartet): No. 3, Come with Us!Leoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 1, JW VIII/17 (Arr. J. Burghauser for String Quartet): No. 4, The Madonna of FrydekLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 1, JW VIII/17 (Arr. J. Burghauser for String Quartet): No. 5, They Chattered like SwallowsLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 1, JW VIII/17 (Arr. J. Burghauser for String Quartet): No. 6, Words Fail!Leoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 1, JW VIII/17 (Arr. J. Burghauser for String Quartet): No. 7, Good Night!Leoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 1, JW VIII/17 (Arr. J. Burghauser for String Quartet): No. 8, Unutterable AnguishLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 1, JW VIII/17 (Arr. J. Burghauser for String Quartet): No. 9, In TearsLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 1, JW VIII/17 (Arr. J. Burghauser for String Quartet): No. 10, The Barn Owl Has Not Flown Away!Leoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 2, JW VIII/17 (Arr. T. Ille for String Quartet): No. 11, AndanteLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 2, JW VIII/17 (Arr. T. Ille for String Quartet): No. 12, AllegrettoLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 2, JW VIII/17 (Arr. T. Ille for String Quartet): No. 13, Più mossoLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 2, JW VIII/17 (Arr. T. Ille for String Quartet): No. 14, AllegroLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
On the Overgrown Path, Book 2, JW VIII/17 (Arr. T. Ille for String Quartet): No. 15, VivoLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
In the Mists, JW VIII/22 (Arr. T. Ille for String Quartet): I. AndanteLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
In the Mists, JW VIII/22 (Arr. T. Ille for String Quartet): II. Molto adagioLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
In the Mists, JW VIII/22 (Arr. T. Ille for String Quartet): III. AndantinoLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
In the Mists, JW VIII/22 (Arr. T. Ille for String Quartet): IV. Con moto. PrestoLeoš Janáček, Czech Philharmonic Quartet
Leoš Janáček, born in the heart of Moravia, was a composer whose music transcended borders and traditions, forging a unique and modern style inspired by the rich tapestry of Slavic folk music. As a composer, music theorist, folklorist, and teacher, Janáček's work is a testament to his deep connection with his cultural heritage and his innovative spirit. His operas, such as "Jenůfa" and "Káťa Kabanová," are renowned for their emotional depth and distinctive musical language, which often incorporates the rhythms and melodies of Moravian and other Slavic folk tunes. Janáček's compositions, including his powerful "Glagolitic Mass," reflect his progressive approach to music, making him one of the most influential Czech composers of the early 20th century. His legacy continues to inspire, blending tradition with innovation in a way that resonates with audiences worldwide.
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Leoš Janáček
