Gubaidulina: 7 Worte; 10 Preludes; De profundis

Immerse yourself in the profound and introspective world of Sofia Gubaidulina with this captivating album, a masterclass in avant-garde and minimalist composition. Released in 2001 on the prestigious ECM New Series label, this collection showcases Gubaidulina's unique voice and her mastery of blending Eastern and Western musical traditions.

The album opens with "Sieben Worte," a powerful work for cello, bayan (a type of Russian accordion), and strings, composed in 1982. This seven-movement piece is a deeply personal exploration of the last words of Jesus Christ, each movement offering a unique musical interpretation of these profound statements. The interplay between the cello, bayan, and strings creates a rich tapestry of sound, highlighting Gubaidulina's innovative use of microtonality and chromaticism.

Following "Sieben Worte," the album presents "Ten Preludes for Cello Solo," a set of ten virtuosic pieces that push the boundaries of cello technique. Each prelude explores different playing styles and extended techniques, showcasing the cello's expressive range and the performer's skill.

The album concludes with "De profundis," a haunting and introspective piece for bayan. This work, like the rest of the album, is a testament to Gubaidulina's deep religious sentiment and her ability to convey complex emotions through music.

Performed by a stellar cast of musicians, including Elsbeth Moser on bayan, Boris Pergamenschikow on cello, and Christoph Poppen conducting the Munich Chamber Orchestra, this album is a stunning showcase of Gubaidulina's unique compositional voice. With a total duration of 71 minutes, it offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that will appeal to fans of avant-garde and minimalist music alike.