Martin: Die Weise von Liebe & Tod des Cornets Christoph Rilke

Immerse yourself in the hauntingly beautiful world of Frank Martin's "Die Weise von Liebe und Tod des Cornets Christoph Rilke," a profound and evocative musical journey composed between 1942 and 1943. This album, released on May 1, 2007, under the Musikproduktion Dabringhaus und Grimm label, is a masterful setting of Rainer Maria Rilke's narrative poem, bringing to life the tragic love story of Cornet Christoph Rilke through a series of 23 interconnected movements.

Performed by the talented contralto Christianne Stotijn and the Musikkollegium Winterthur, conducted by Jac van Steen, this album is a testament to Martin's compositional genius. The small orchestra, featuring a delicate balance of woodwinds, brass, and strings, provides a rich and nuanced backdrop to Stotijn's captivating vocals. The album spans a duration of 57 minutes, offering a deeply immersive experience that showcases Martin's unique ability to blend lyrical melodies with dramatic intensity.

Each track tells a part of the story, from the galloping rhythms of "Reiten" to the poignant reflections of "Jemand erzählt von seiner Mutter," and the climactic "Der Tod." The album culminates in the haunting final movement, "Im nächsten Frühjahr," leaving a lasting impression on the listener. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is a compelling exploration of love, loss, and the human condition, as interpreted through the lens of one of the 20th century's most innovative composers.

Frank Martin, born in 1890 in Switzerland, was a composer whose work continues to resonate in concert halls worldwide, even 50 years after his passing. Martin's music is deeply spiritual and innovative, often reflecting his profound Christian faith and the influence of Baroque masters like Bach. He was a pioneer of the twelve-tone technique and created a diverse range of works, including orchestral, choral, vocal, and chamber music. Martin's compositions, such as the Violin Concerto and Petite Symphonie concertante, are celebrated for their exceptional quality and enduring relevance. Despite his global acclaim, Martin's name remains known to a select audience, adding an air of intimacy and discovery to his music. His legacy is preserved and promoted by the Frank Martin Foundation, ensuring that his compositions continue to inspire and captivate audiences.