Robert Gerhard - Ballets - Roberto Gerhard

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Roberto Gerhard's "Ballets," a mesmerizing collection of compositions that blend the rich cultural heritage of Spain with the innovative techniques of modernist music. Released on December 31, 2019, under the Ficta label, this album offers a unique journey through Gerhard's distinctive musical language, characterized by its rhythmic vitality, intricate textures, and profound emotional depth.

The album features two main suites: the "Pandora Suite" and "Alegrías." The "Pandora Suite" is a five-movement work that draws inspiration from the myth of Pandora, exploring themes of quest, youth, carnival, power, and maternal strength. Each movement is performed by two pianos and percussion, creating a dynamic and engaging soundscape. The "Alegrías" suite, on the other hand, is a four-movement work that delves into the vibrant world of Spanish folk music, with each piece performed by two pianos.

Roberto Gerhard, a Spanish-Catalan composer who studied with Arnold Schoenberg, brings a unique perspective to his music, blending traditional Spanish elements with modernist techniques. His work often reflects his political and social views, as seen in his ballets "Don Quixote" and "Pandora." This album is a testament to Gerhard's innovative approach to composition and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

With a total duration of 50 minutes, "Ballets" is a compact yet powerful collection that showcases Roberto Gerhard's mastery of form, rhythm, and harmony. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

31 december 2019

2019 Ficta edicions i produccions sl

About Roberto Gerhard

Roberto Gerhard, born in 1896 in Valls, Catalonia, was a pioneering composer who bridged the musical traditions of Spain and Britain. Initially studying piano with the renowned Enrique Granados and composition with Felipe Pedrell, Gerhard's musical journey took a significant turn when he became a pupil of Arnold Schoenberg in Vienna and Berlin. This exposure to Schoenberg's innovative techniques deeply influenced Gerhard's own compositional style, leading him to become a central figure in the Catalan avant-garde upon his return to Barcelona in 1928.

Gerhard's music is a rich tapestry of influences, blending Catalan folk music with modern tonal and serial styles. His works span a wide range of genres, including ballets, operas, symphonies, and groundbreaking electronic compositions. He was one of the first electronic composers based in the UK, pushing the boundaries of what music could be. Throughout his career, Gerhard collaborated with notable figures such as Pablo Casals and Joan Miró, further enriching his artistic legacy. His contributions to the world of music are celebrated for their innovation and cultural depth, making Roberto Gerhard one of the most prominent Spanish composers of the 20th century.