Roberto Gerhard, Schahrazada, Cancionero de Pedrell

Album Description

Dive into the rich musical tapestry of Roberto Gerhard's "Schahrazada, Cancionero de Pedrell," a captivating album that showcases the composer's unique blend of influences and masterful compositional skills. Released in 1988 on the Etcetera label, this album is a testament to Gerhard's prolific songwriting and arrangement prowess, featuring a diverse collection of works that span various regions and musical styles.

The album is divided into two main sections: "L'infantament meravelloos de Schahrazada, Op. 1" and "Cancionero de Pedrell." The first section presents a series of enchanting songs that draw inspiration from the tales of Scheherazade, each track offering a unique musical narrative that transports the listener to a world of wonder and imagination. The second section, "Cancionero de Pedrell," is a set of eight songs for soprano and chamber ensemble, each a beautiful arrangement of traditional folk songs from different regions of Spain, including Catalonia, Asturias, Galicia, and Valencia. These songs offer a glimpse into the rich musical heritage of Spain, expertly arranged and performed by Gerhard.

Throughout the album, Gerhard's compositional aesthetic shines through, reflecting his Catalan roots and his experiences living in Cambridge. The album's duration of 51 minutes provides a satisfying listen, with each track carefully crafted to showcase Gerhard's unique voice and musical vision. Whether you're a fan of classical music, folk music, or simply appreciate beautiful compositions, "Schahrazada, Cancionero de Pedrell" is an album that will captivate and inspire.

1 januari 1988

1988 Etcetera

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.