Kurt Weill. Mahagonny. Chansons Des Quais. Kleine Dreigroschenmusik

Album Description

Dive into the captivating world of Kurt Weill with this extraordinary collection of his seminal works, released on Ensemble Modern Medien. This album, recorded in 2019, showcases Weill's genius through three of his most renowned compositions: "Mahagonny. Ein Songspiel," "Chansons Des Quais," and "Kleine Dreigroschenmusik."

"Mahagonny. Ein Songspiel," composed in 1927, is a groundbreaking work that blends elements of opera, cabaret, and social commentary. This album features all three songs and the finale from this provocative piece, offering a unique insight into Weill's early explorations of musical theater.

"Chansons Des Quais," originally written in 1934 and revised in 2017, is a cycle of songs that evoke the atmosphere of the waterfront. This album presents the complete cycle, from the haunting "Introduction" to the lively "Le Train Du Ciel," providing a rich tapestry of sounds and moods.

"Kleine Dreigroschenmusik," composed in 1928, is an instrumental suite based on Weill's famous "The Threepenny Opera." This album includes all seven movements, from the stirring "Ouvertüre" to the dramatic "Dreigroschen-Finale," showcasing Weill's mastery of orchestration and his unique blend of classical and popular styles.

The album features stunning performances by Ensemble Modern, conducted by HK Gruber, with vocal contributions from Ute Gfrerer and Winnie Böwe. The recording also includes a bonus track, "Lied Vom Blinden Mädchen," a poignant song from 1931 that highlights Weill's ability to convey deep human experiences through music.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 25 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Kurt Weill's innovative and influential work. Whether you're a longtime fan of Weill's music or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

26 apr 2019

2019 Ensemble Modern Medien

About Kurt Weill

Kurt Weill, born in Dessau, Germany, in 1900, was a pioneering composer whose innovative spirit bridged the worlds of classical music and theater. Best known for his collaborations with Bertolt Brecht, Weill's works often carried a sharp social commentary, reflecting his belief in music's power to serve a socially useful purpose. Their most famous collaboration, "The Threepenny Opera," introduced the iconic ballad "Mack the Knife" and revolutionized the musical theater landscape. Weill's compositions, ranging from operas to Broadway musicals, seamlessly blended various musical styles, including American popular music, ragtime, and jazz. His notable works include "Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny," "Knickerbocker Holiday," featuring the beloved "September Song," and "Lost in the Stars," which addressed the pressing issue of racism in South Africa. Weill's journey took him from his early years in Germany to his later life in the United States, where he became a naturalized citizen in 1943. His legacy endures as one of the most important and innovative composers of the 20th century.