Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Erich Wolfgang Korngold with this exquisite album, featuring two of his most celebrated chamber works: the Piano Trio in D Major, Op. 1, and the String Sextet in D Major, Op. 10. Released on October 23, 2020, by Naxos, this album offers a rich and diverse listening experience that spans a little over an hour.
Korngold, a prodigious composer who began his career in the early 20th century, showcases his remarkable talent and versatility in these two compositions. The Piano Trio in D Major, Op. 1, composed when Korngold was just a teenager, reveals his precocious genius and deep understanding of musical form and expression. The four movements of this trio—Allegro non troppo, con espressione, Scherzo. Allegro, Larghetto, and Finale. Allegro molto e energico—take the listener on a journey through a range of emotions and moods, from introspective and lyrical to energetic and playful.
The String Sextet in D Major, Op. 10, composed a few years later, further demonstrates Korngold's mastery of chamber music. This four-movement work—Moderato - Allegro, Adagio. Langsam, Intermezzo. In gemäßigtem Zeitmaß, mit Grazie, and Finale. So rasch als möglich—showcases the composer's ability to create intricate and engaging textures for the ensemble, as well as his gift for melody and harmony.
Performed by a talented group of musicians, this album captures the essence of Korngold's music with clarity and passion. The Naxos label is known for its high-quality recordings, and this album is no exception. Whether you're a longtime fan of Korngold or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to delight and inspire.