Immerse yourself in the rich orchestral tapestry of Carl Nielsen's masterful compositions with the upcoming release, "Nielsen: Symphony No. 6 & Commotio." Set to debut on Linn Records on September 5, 2025, this album is a captivating journey through Nielsen's intricate and evocative musical landscapes.
The album opens with Nielsen's Symphony No. 6, "Sinfonia semplice," expertly arranged for a small orchestra by Hans Abrahamsen. This four-movement symphony is a testament to Nielsen's genius, blending simplicity with profound depth. The first movement, "Tempo giusto," sets a steady pace, while the second, "Humoreske. Allegretto," introduces a playful and lighthearted tone. The third movement, "Proposta seria. Adagio," delves into a more serious and reflective mood, culminating in the fourth movement, "Tema con variazioni," which showcases Nielsen's mastery of thematic development.
The second half of the album features Nielsen's "Commotio, Op. 58," also arranged by Hans Abrahamsen. This four-movement work is a powerful exploration of orchestral color and texture. The first movement, "Adagio," begins with a sense of solemnity and introspection, while the second, "Andantino quasi allegretto," introduces a gentle and lyrical quality. The third movement, "Andante sostenuto," continues the reflective mood, leading to the final movement, "Crotchet = 80," which brings the album to a close with a sense of resolution and tranquility.
With a total runtime of 58 minutes, this album is a must-listen for any fan of orchestral music. Nielsen's compositions, brought to life by the skilled arrangements of Hans Abrahamsen, offer a rich and rewarding listening experience that is sure to captivate and inspire.