Dive into the formative years of Alban Berg, one of the most influential composers of the 20th century, with "The Early Songs of Alban Berg." Released on April 16, 2021, this album offers a unique glimpse into Berg's early musical explorations, showcasing his evolution from the rich tradition of German Romantic lieder to the atonal landscapes that would define his later works.
This collection features 20 exquisite songs, meticulously performed by baritone Steven Kimbrough and soprano Margaret Jackson, with Mary K. Jackson accompanying on the piano. The album spans two volumes of Berg's "Jugendlieder," capturing the essence of his youthful compositions and their echoes of Brahms, Mahler, Strauss, and Debussy. Each track is a testament to Berg's burgeoning genius, revealing the seeds of his innovative harmonic language and expressive depth.
From the hauntingly beautiful "Über meinen Nächten" to the evocative "Soldatenbraut," these songs are far too seldom heard, making this album a rare and precious addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. The performances are nothing short of superb, bringing to life the heartbreaking pathos and soaring melodies that characterize Berg's early works.
"The Early Songs of Alban Berg" is not just a compilation of songs; it is a journey through the composer's artistic development. Recorded with impeccable clarity by Centaur Records, this album is a celebration of Berg's enduring legacy, offering listeners a chance to experience the raw talent and creative vision that would shape the future of classical music. Whether you are a seasoned fan of Berg's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album is a captivating exploration of his early masterpieces.
2021 Centaur Records, Inc.2021 Centaur Records, Inc.
Tracks
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 1, Heiliger HimmelAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 9, Über meinen NächtenAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 21, Wenn Gespenster auferstehnAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 22, Vom EndeAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 8, LiebesliedAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 33, FurchtAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 24, ScheideliedAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 40, FrommAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 1 (Excerpts): No. 26, NachtgesangAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 64, Im WaldeAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 41, Über Nacht und Tag [1]Alban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 41, Über Nacht und Tag [2]Alban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 39, Ich und duAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 58, SoldatenbrautAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 47, SpukAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 68, LebenAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 74, TrinkliedAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 67, Was zucken die braunen GeigenAlban Berg, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 63, Ballade des äußeren LebensAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Mary K. Jackson
Jugendlieder, Vol. 2 (Excerpts): No. 65, Viel TräumeAlban Berg, Steven Kimbrough, Margaret Jackson, Mary K. Jackson