Norgard: Will-o'-the-Wisps in Town - Out of the Cradle Endlessly Rocking

Immerse yourself in the enchanting and thought-provoking world of Per Nørgård's "Will-o'-the-Wisps in Town - Out of the Cradle Endlessly Rocking." This captivating album, released on Dacapo in 2012, is a mesmerizing blend of neoclassical and avant-garde genres, spanning a concise yet impactful 48 minutes.

The album is a journey through two distinct yet interconnected works by the renowned Danish composer Per Nørgård. The first, "Lygtemaendene tager til byen" (The Will-o'-the-Wisps Go to Town), is a captivating piece for mezzo-soprano and chamber ensemble. This narrative-driven work is a modern fairy tale that explores themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time. The second work, "Out of the Cradle Endlessly Rocking," is a three-movement orchestral piece that draws inspiration from Walt Whitman's poem of the same name. This piece is a meditation on the cycles of life and the enduring power of nature.

The album is performed by a stellar cast of musicians, including the Athelas Sinfonietta and the Danish National Vocal Ensemble, under the direction of conductor Thomas E. Nielsen. The mezzo-soprano role is taken by the talented Tineke Van Ingelgem, whose powerful and expressive voice brings Nørgård's music to life.

In addition to the music, the album is accompanied by a half-hour documentary titled "A Journey in Fairy Tales and Music," which offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind the album. The documentary features interviews with Per Nørgård, as well as the performers and other collaborators involved in the project.

"Will-o'-the-Wisps in Town - Out of the Cradle Endlessly Rocking" is a testament to Per Nørgård's unique and visionary approach to composition. It is a work that challenges and delights in equal measure, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience that will captivate fans of neoclassical and avant-garde music alike.