Liederabend

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Hugo Wolf's "Liederabend," a stunning collection of songs that showcases the composer's mastery of the German Lied. Released in 2017, this album is a treasure trove of late Romantic art songs, featuring a diverse range of pieces that highlight Wolf's unique compositional voice.

The album opens with Wolf's Piano Sonata, Op. 1, providing a solid foundation before delving into the heart of the collection: the Mörike-Songs. These songs, composed in a remarkable burst of creativity in 1888, are settings of poems by the beloved German poet Eduard Mörike. The 20 songs selected for this album offer a rich tapestry of human experiences, from love and longing to nature and spirituality.

In addition to the Mörike-Songs, "Liederabend" includes other notable works by Wolf, such as the evocative "The Fire-Rider" and the hopeful "Tomorrow!" from his 4 Songs, Op. 27. Each piece is a testament to Wolf's ability to blend intricate piano accompaniments with deeply expressive vocal lines.

With a duration of over an hour and nineteen minutes, this album is a substantial exploration of Hugo Wolf's art song repertoire. The performances are brought to life by an unnamed artist, accompanied by pianist Vadim Kholodenko, who brings out the nuance and depth of Wolf's compositions. Recorded live, the album captures the immediacy and intimacy of a live performance, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's library.

Hugo Wolf, the Austrian composer, is celebrated for his profound impact on the art song, or Lied, elevating it to unprecedented heights of emotional intensity and dramatic depth. Born in Windischgraz in 1860, Wolf's musical journey was marked by both brilliance and struggle. Influenced by the likes of Wagner, Liszt, and Schubert, he crafted songs that resonate with a unique expressive power, setting him apart in the late Romantic era. His most renowned works include the "Mörike Lieder" and the "Goethe Songbook," which showcase his mastery of the Lied form. Despite his musical genius, Wolf's life was marred by personal turmoil, including battles with depression and syphilis, which ultimately led to his untimely death in 1903. His legacy endures, inspiring generations of musicians and enthusiasts with his emotionally charged and technically innovative compositions.