Immerse yourself in the dramatic intensity of Othmar Schoeck's "Penthesilea, Op. 39," a powerful one-act opera that stands as the composer's most significant and innovative work. Originally premiered at the Staatsoper in Dresden in 1927, this opera is a gripping adaptation of Heinrich von Kleist's tragic play, condensed by Schoeck into a deeply moving musical experience.
The album, released by Musiques Suisses in 2014, features a stellar cast and the Sinfonieorchester Basel under the baton of Mario Venzago. With a runtime of approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes, this recording captures the raw power and nuanced storytelling of Schoeck's score, which includes an unusual instrumentation of ten clarinets, two orchestral pianos, and four solo violins.
"Penthesilea, Op. 39" unfolds the tale of Achilles, who challenges the Amazon queen Penthesilea to a duel. After defeating her, he falls in love with her as she lies unconscious. Upon awakening, Penthesilea is convinced she has vanquished Achilles, leading to a complex dance of love and power that ultimately drives them both to tragic ends. Schoeck's music, eruptive and deeply evocative, brings Kleist's dramatic tension to life, making this recording a compelling journey into the heart of operatic drama.
This album is a testament to Schoeck's mastery of the operatic form, showcasing his ability to blend intense orchestration with profound vocal performances. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Penthesilea, Op. 39" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 18: Niederlage und Abgang (Achilles)Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, James Johnson, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 19: Fluch der Oberpriesterin (Oberpriesterin)Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, Ute Trekel-Burckhardt, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 20: Dialogfragment sowie Auftritt des Herolds (Prothoe, Penthesilea, Herold)Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, Renate Behle, Yvonne Naef, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 20: Penthesileas Fluch Teil 1Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 20: Penthesileas Fluch Teil 2Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 21: — (Achilles, Diomedes)Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, James Johnson, Stuart Kale, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 21: Die Ermordung des Achilles und Ende des zweiten Teils der OperOthmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 22: Beginn der 2 Erzählung der Obersten (Obersten)Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, Ute Trekel-Burckhardt, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 24: Trauermarsch der Amazonen mit der Leiche des (Achilles)Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, James Johnson, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 24: Schlussgesang (Penthelisea)Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, Yvonne Naef, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 24: Wahnsinn (Penthelisea)Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, Yvonne Naef, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Penthesilea, Op. 39, Scene 24: Monolog und Selbstmond (Penthelisea)Othmar Schoeck, Mario Venzago, Yvonne Naef, Sinfonieorchester Basel
Othmar Schoeck, born into an artistic family in Brunnen, Switzerland, in 1886, was a multifaceted musician renowned for his contributions as a composer, conductor, and pianist. Schoeck's musical journey began at the Zürich Conservatory, where he honed his skills before studying briefly with Max Reger in Leipzig. His career, primarily based in Zürich, spanned conducting choral societies and symphony orchestras, as well as composing a vast array of works.
Schoeck is celebrated for his art songs, or Lieder, which number over 300, showcasing his deep lyrical romanticism. His operas and instrumental works, influenced by figures like Busoni, Berg, and Les six, have earned him a place among the significant composers of the 20th century. Despite facing controversy for his collaboration with Nazi Germany, Schoeck's legacy endures, with his works experiencing a resurgence of interest in recent years. His compositions, including the haunting song-cycle "Notturno," offer a rich tapestry of emotional depth and musical innovation, making him a composer worth exploring for both his technical prowess and his enduring musical legacy.
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Othmar Schoeck
