"Stockhausen: Kurzwellen" is a captivating exploration of sound and space, presented by the pioneering composer Karlheinz Stockhausen. Originally composed in 1968, this 2018 release on Mode Records offers a unique blend of avant-garde, krautrock, experimental, and minimalist elements, all encapsulated within a concise 47-minute duration. The album is a testament to Stockhausen's innovative approach to composition, featuring intricate layering of shortwave radio broadcasts and instrumental performances.
Conducted by Paul Mefano and performed by the esteemed Ensemble C.L.S.I., the album is a complex interplay of radio transmissions and live instrumental parts. The tracklist is a detailed map of Stockhausen's compositional process, with each piece meticulously labeled to indicate the number of synchronous or alternating events between the radio and instrumental components. This structural clarity allows for a deep dive into the composer's methodical and experimental approach.
The album's hybrid SACD format ensures high-fidelity audio, making it an ideal choice for audiophiles and fans of experimental music. "Stockhausen: Kurzwellen" is not just a listening experience; it's an immersive journey into the mind of one of the 20th century's most influential composers. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Stockhausen's work or a newcomer to his unique sonic landscape, this album offers a rich and rewarding exploration of sound and composition.
2018 Mode Records2018 Mode Records
Tracks
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1 (Realization by Ensemble C.L.S.I.): Introduction Shortwave Radio QuartetKarlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1 (Realization by Ensemble C.L.S.I.): Introduction Instrumental QuartetKarlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: First W Radio Solo, Followed by Instrumental Quartet [4 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: Radio Followed by Instrumental Trio [5 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: Instrumental Duo [2 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [1 Synchronous Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: Second W Radio Solo Followed by Instrumental quartet [2 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 1: Radio Followed by Instrumental Quartet [5 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Beginning of System Event Followed by Instrumental Quartet [1 Alternating Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Instrumental Duo [1 Alternating Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [4 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [5 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Third W Radio Solo Followed by Instrumental quartet [3 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [2 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 2: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [3 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Instrumental Trio [5 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Radio Followed by Instrumental Trio [1 Synchronous Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Radio Followed by Instrumental Trio [3 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Fourth W Radio Solo Followed by Instrumental Quartet [5 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Radio Followed by Instrumental Trio [2 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Instrumental Duo [5 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 3: Instrumental Trio [4 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Quartet [4 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Duo [1 Alternating Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Trio [3 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Radio Followed by Instrumental Trio [6 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Duo [2 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Quartet [3 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental Duo [4 Alternating Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Radio Followed by Instrumental Duo [2 Synchronous Events]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Kurzwellen, Work No. 25, System 4: Instrumental & Radio Trio [1 Alternating Event]Karlheinz Stockhausen, Ensemble C.L.S.I., Paul Méfano
Karlheinz Stockhausen, born in 1928 near Cologne, was a titan of 20th-century music, renowned for his innovative and often controversial compositions. Spanning over five decades, his prolific career yielded 370 works that pushed the boundaries of electronic music, serial composition, and musical spatialization. Stockhausen was a pioneer in integrating electronic sounds and controlled chance into his music, earning him the title of the "father of electronic music." His work, such as the monumental "Hymnen," has left an indelible mark on the contemporary musical landscape, influencing generations of composers and musicians. Despite his sometimes divisive reputation, Stockhausen's legacy as one of the most influential figures in modern music is undeniable. His compositions, ranging from avant-garde to minimalism, continue to inspire and challenge audiences worldwide.
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Karlheinz Stockhausen
