Immerse yourself in the rich and diverse world of Ernst Krenek's vocal and chamber music with this captivating album, "Krenek: Songs." This collection, released on the Capriccio label, offers a profound exploration of Krenek's artistic journey, spanning various styles and periods of his prolific career. With a duration of 57 minutes, the album features a meticulously curated selection of songs and chamber pieces, each showcasing Krenek's unique compositional voice.
The album opens with "Monolog der Stella, Op. 57a," a poignant arrangement for soprano and piano, followed by a series of moving songs from "O Lacrymosa, Op. 48" and "Durch die Nacht, Op. 67." These works highlight Krenek's ability to blend lyrical beauty with structural complexity, creating a deeply engaging listening experience. The album also includes selections from "Wechselrahmen, Op. 189," a cycle of songs that demonstrates Krenek's mastery of vocal writing and his exploration of modern harmonic languages.
Ernst Krenek, an Austrian-born composer who later became an American citizen, was known for his innovative approach to composition. He explored atonality and other modern styles, leaving behind a vast and diverse oeuvre that reflects his creative evolution over more than eight decades. This album provides a glimpse into his extensive body of work, offering both familiar and lesser-known pieces that reveal the depth and breadth of his musical vision.
The performances on this album are brought to life by the Ernst Krenek Ensemble, a group dedicated to promoting Krenek's chamber music and songs. Their commitment to authenticity and artistic excellence ensures that each note resonates with the composer's original intent, providing an authentic and immersive experience for the listener.
Whether you are a seasoned fan of Krenek's music or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling introduction to the composer's unique artistic voice. With its diverse repertoire and high-quality performances, "Krenek: Songs" is a testament to the enduring relevance and beauty of Ernst Krenek's musical legacy.
2010 Capriccio2010 Capriccio
Tracks
Monolog der Stella, Op. 57a (arr. for soprano and piano)Anonymous, Ernst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
O Lacrymosa, Op. 48: No. 1. O TranenvolleErnst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
O Lacrymosa, Op. 48: No. 2. Nichts als ein Atemzug ist das LeereErnst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
O Lacrymosa, Op. 48: No. 3. Aber die Winter!Ernst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
Durch die Nacht, Op. 67: No. 1. So spat ist es, so spateErnst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
Durch die Nacht, Op. 67: No. 2. Da weht mich wieder jene Ahnung anErnst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
Durch die Nacht, Op. 67: No. 3. Ich hab von dem fahrenden Zuge getraumtErnst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
Durch die Nacht, Op. 67: No. 4. Nachtliche Stunde, die mir vergehtErnst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
Durch die Nacht, Op. 67: No. 5. Fernes Light mir nahem ScheinErnst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
Durch die Nacht, Op. 67: No. 6. Wie der Tag sich durch das Fenster trautErnst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
Durch die Nacht, Op. 67: No. 7. Nun weiss ich doch, 's ist Fruhling wiederErnst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers
Die Nachtigall, Op. 68a (arr. for soprano and piano)Ernst Krenek, Ilana Davidson, Debra Ayers