Schumann / Holliger: Aschenmusik

"Schumann / Holliger: Aschenmusik" is a captivating exploration of the musical dialogue between the legendary Robert Schumann and the renowned Swiss oboist and composer, Heinz Holliger. Released on ECM New Series in 2014, this album is a testament to Holliger's lifelong fascination with Schumann's music, offering a unique blend of classical chamber music that spans a little over an hour.

The album features a diverse range of compositions, including arrangements of Schumann's "6 Studien in kanonischer Form, Op. 56" for oboe, cello, and piano, as well as selections from his "3 Romances for Oboe, Op. 94." Holliger's own compositions, the "Romancendres for Cello and Piano," are also prominently featured, showcasing his distinctive voice and deep connection to Schumann's musical language.

Holliger is joined by cellist Anita Leuzinger, with whom he delivers a nuanced and expressive performance. The album also includes notable interpretations of Schumann's violin sonatas, adapted for oboe and piano, highlighting Holliger's virtuosity and interpretive prowess.

"Schumann / Holliger: Aschenmusik" is a compelling journey through the musical landscapes of two remarkable composers, offering listeners a chance to experience the profound interplay between Schumann's romantic sensibilities and Holliger's contemporary vision. The album's rich tapestry of sounds and textures makes it a standout addition to any classical music collection.

Heinz Holliger, born in Switzerland in 1939, is a multifaceted figure in the world of classical music, renowned as a composer, virtuoso oboist, and conductor. His extraordinary versatility and technical prowess have established him as one of the most prominent oboists of his generation. Holliger's repertoire spans Baroque and Classical masterpieces, as well as lesser-known Romantic works and his own compositions. He has collaborated with his wife, harpist Ursula Holliger, to perform contemporary pieces, and has inspired numerous composers, including Messiaen, Berio, and Stockhausen, to create works specifically for him.

As a composer, Holliger is known for his uncompromising avant-garde style, with a catalog that includes operas such as "Schneewittchen" (1998) and "Lunea," as well as a wide range of chamber and orchestral works. His music often draws inspiration from poets grappling with themes of insanity and mortality. Holliger's journey in music began with studies at the conservatories of Bern and Basel, followed by advanced training in Paris with renowned musicians like Pierre Pierlot and Yvonne Lefébure. His career has seen him perform with leading orchestras and ensembles worldwide, earning him numerous awards and accolades. Whether conducting, composing, or performing, Heinz Holliger's contributions to the classical music landscape are both profound and enduring.