Reger: Geistliche Lieder

Dive into the sacred and profound with Max Reger's "Geistliche Lieder," a captivating collection of spiritual songs that showcase the composer's mastery of religious themes. Released in the year 2000, this album features a rich tapestry of compositions that span various religious occasions and moods, from the solemnity of Passiontide to the joyous celebration of Christmas and Easter.

The album opens with "Zwölf Geistliche Lieder Op. 137," a series of twelve sacred songs dedicated to Fräulein M. Wach, each offering a unique perspective on faith and devotion. These pieces are performed with exquisite sensitivity by Klaus Mertens, accompanied by the organ mastery of Martin Haselböck. The album also includes other notable works such as "Sieben Stücke für die Orgel, Op. 145," which features organ pieces dedicated to different religious holidays, and selections from "2 Geistliche Gesänge, Op. 19" and "2 Geistliche Lieder, Op. 105," which highlight Reger's ability to blend deep spiritual reflection with musical brilliance.

With a duration of approximately 79 minutes, "Geistliche Lieder" is a comprehensive exploration of Reger's sacred music, offering both familiar hymns and lesser-known gems. The album is a testament to Reger's ability to convey the depths of human spirituality through his music, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Max Reger or a newcomer to his work, this album promises a deeply moving and spiritually enriching experience.

Max Reger, born Johann Baptist Joseph Maximilian Reger in 1873, was a towering figure in German music, straddling the late Romantic and early Modernist eras. A prolific composer, pianist, organist, and conductor, Reger's music is renowned for its complexity and emotional depth, particularly his monumental fugues and organ works. Born in Brand, Bavaria, Reger's musical journey began under the tutelage of his parents and the local organist, leading him to become one of the most significant composers of organ music since Bach. His compositions, which include magnificent chorale-based and free works, reflect both the grandeur of German Romanticism and the innovative spirit of Modernism. Reger's legacy endures, celebrated by figures such as Paul Hindemith and Arnold Schoenberg, and his music continues to captivate audiences with its structural coherence and emotional resonance.