Immerse yourself in the profound and intricate world of Max Reger's organ compositions with this comprehensive collection, "Reger: Organ Works." Released on December 4, 2020, this album, performed by Gerhard Weinberger, offers an extensive journey through the masterful works of the late 19th-century composer, who is renowned for his contributions to the organ repertoire.
Spanning over five hours and thirty-two minutes, this album is a testament to Reger's virtuosic skill and deep musical insight. The tracklist features a diverse array of pieces, including sonatas, choral fantasies, choral preludes, and various other compositions that showcase Reger's mastery of the organ. Highlights include the Passacaglia und Fuge in E Minor, Op. 127, the Organ Sonata No. 1 in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 33, and the Choralfantasien, Op. 52, among many others.
Reger, primarily known for his organ works, began his compositional journey with Lieder, chamber music, choral music, and piano pieces before venturing into orchestral compositions. This album captures the essence of his early and later works, providing a comprehensive overview of his artistic evolution. The inclusion of both well-known and lesser-explored pieces ensures that this collection is a treasure trove for both seasoned fans and those new to Reger's music.
Recorded in the best surround sound, this SACD format ensures an immersive listening experience, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the richness and depth of Reger's compositions. Whether you are an organ enthusiast or a classical music lover, this album is a valuable addition to your collection, offering a deep dive into the genius of Max Reger.
(C) 2020 Pan Classics(P) 2020 Pan Classics
Tracks
Introduction, Passacaglia und Fuge in E Minor, Op. 127Max Reger, Heinz Wunderlich
Organ Sonata No. 1 in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 33Max Reger, Heinz Wunderlich
Organ Sonata No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 60Max Reger, Heinz Wunderlich
3 Choralfantasien, Op. 52 (Excerpts): No. 3, Über den Choral "Halleluja, Gott zu loben bleibe meine Seelenfreud"Max Reger, Heinz Wunderlich
3 Choralfantasien, Op. 52 (Excerpts): No. 2, Über den Choral "Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme"Max Reger, Heinz Wunderlich
Choralfantasie über "Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott", Op. 27Max Reger, Heinz Wunderlich
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.
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Max Reger
