Pettersson, A.: 8 Barefoot Songs / Concertos for Strings Nos. 1-2

Dive into the profound and evocative world of Allan Pettersson with this captivating album, featuring a selection of his most revered works. The album opens with eight of Pettersson's "Barefoot Songs," beautifully arranged for voice and orchestra by Antal Doráti. These songs, originally composed for voice and piano, are given new life with lush orchestral accompaniment, showcasing Pettersson's unique lyrical style and deep connection to Swedish folk music.

Following the songs, the album presents two of Pettersson's string concertos, showcasing his mastery of the string orchestra. Concerto No. 1 and Concerto No. 2 offer a stark contrast to the songs, with their intense, dramatic narratives and complex, often dissonant harmonies. These works are a testament to Pettersson's unique voice and his ability to push the boundaries of traditional concertos.

The album, released on the BIS label, spans a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, providing a substantial exploration of Pettersson's musical language. It's a perfect introduction to the composer's work for those new to his music, and a welcome addition to the collections of those already familiar with his unique sound. The album was released on January 1, 2009.