Thomas Larcher: Naunz

Album Description

"Naunz," the debut album by Austrian composer and pianist Thomas Larcher, is a captivating exploration of contemporary classical music, released in 2001 under the prestigious ECM New Series label. This album is a testament to Larcher's unique compositional voice, which blends intricate structures with a deep sense of lyricism.

The album features a diverse range of works, including solo piano pieces, chamber music, and a multi-movement work titled "Kraken," which showcases the interplay between violin, cello, and piano. The performances are brought to life by an ensemble of exceptional musicians, including Thomas Larcher himself on piano, Erich Höbarth on violin, and Thomas Demenga on cello.

"Naunz" opens with the eponymous solo piano piece, a work that demands both technical virtuosity and interpretive depth. The album then transitions into "Vier Seiten," followed by the atmospheric "Noodivihik." The centerpiece of the album is "Kraken," a five-movement work that explores a variety of moods and textures, from the rapid and energetic to the slow and contemplative. The album concludes with "Antennen-Requiem für H.," a poignant and reflective piece in three movements.

Throughout "Naunz," Thomas Larcher demonstrates his mastery of form and harmony, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience. The album's duration of approximately one hour allows for a sustained exploration of Larcher's musical language, making it an essential addition to any contemporary classical music collection.

6 april 2001

℗ 2001 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Thomas Larcher

Thomas Larcher, born in Innsbruck, Austria in 1963, is a renowned composer and pianist celebrated for his unique blend of traditional symphonic elements and innovative contemporary techniques. His music, often described as haunting and dreamlike, showcases his astonishing ear for detail and quizzical attitude towards composition. Larcher's works, which span from solo piano pieces to large-scale orchestral compositions, have been performed and recorded by some of the world's most prestigious ensembles and soloists. He studied piano and composition at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, where he honed his craft under the guidance of esteemed mentors. Larcher's compositions, such as "The Living Mountain" and his symphonies, have garnered critical acclaim for their emotional accessibility and clever construction. In addition to his composing career, Larcher is also an accomplished pianist, having performed with conductors like Claudio Abbado. His music invites audiences to engage deeply with each note, convincing them that every sound is precisely where it should be. Larcher's imaginative voice continues to make waves in the classical music world, with his works being featured in major festivals and concerts around the globe.