Dive into the rich tapestry of Ernst Krenek's "Orpheus und Eurydike, Op. 21," a captivating opera that reimagines the timeless myth of Orpheus and Eurydice through a 20th-century lens. This live recording, released on Orfeo, offers a unique perspective on the enduring tale, with a libretto based on Oskar Kokoschka's play, which premiered just a year before Rainer Maria Rilke's famous "Sonnets to Orpheus."
Composed in 1923 and premiered in 1926, "Orpheus und Eurydike" showcases Krenek's innovative approach to opera, transforming the tender, tragically misled singer into a symbol of the fragmented modern world. The opera, set in three acts, is a profound exploration of love, loss, and the human condition, all wrapped in Krenek's distinctive musical language.
This album, recorded live, captures the intensity and drama of the opera, with a duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It's a testament to Krenek's enduring legacy in the world of chamber music and opera, offering a glimpse into his unique interpretation of the Orpheus myth. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this recording promises a compelling and thought-provoking experience. The album features a stellar performance, bringing to life the complex characters and narratives that Krenek and Kokoschka crafted nearly a century ago.
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.
1,987 Followers
Compare reliable providers and find the cheapest option. View the current prices below.
Price unknown - In most cases, this means the album isn't available on LP or is no longer offered on LP by our trusted sellers.