Thomas Larcher: The Living Mountain

Album Description

Thomas Larcher's latest offering, "The Living Mountain," is a deeply personal and captivating exploration of sound and composition, released on the prestigious ECM New Series label. Recorded in Munich and Weerberg over 2021 and 2022, this album is the fourth in the series dedicated to Larcher's compositions, produced by the renowned Manfred Eicher.

The album is a testament to Larcher's unique voice in the classical music world, featuring a blend of hypnotic power and intricate detail. The centerpiece is the titular work, "The Living Mountain," a five-movement piece that draws inspiration from the natural world and the human experience. Each movement, from the introductory "Introduzione" to the final "Further Up Is All Snow," offers a distinct sonic landscape, showcasing Larcher's mastery of composition and orchestration.

In addition to "The Living Mountain," the album includes two other significant works: "Ouroboros," a three-movement piece that explores themes of cyclicality and renewal, and "Unerzählt," a sprawling, 13-part work that delves into narrative and storytelling. The latter is particularly notable for its range and depth, with each movement offering a unique perspective and musical language.

Performances on the album are stellar, featuring a roster of talented musicians including Sarah Aristidou, Aaron Pilsan, Luka Juhart, and the Munich Chamber Orchestra, all conducted by Clemens Schuldt. The ensemble's commitment to Larcher's vision is evident in every note, making this album a standout in the contemporary classical genre.

With a running time of 57 minutes, "The Living Mountain" is a rich and rewarding listen, offering plenty to explore and discover with each playthrough. Whether you're a longtime fan of Thomas Larcher or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

6 oktober 2023

℗ 2023 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Thomas Larcher

Thomas Larcher, born in Innsbruck, Austria in 1963, is a renowned composer and pianist celebrated for his unique blend of traditional symphonic elements and innovative contemporary techniques. His music, often described as haunting and dreamlike, showcases his astonishing ear for detail and quizzical attitude towards composition. Larcher's works, which span from solo piano pieces to large-scale orchestral compositions, have been performed and recorded by some of the world's most prestigious ensembles and soloists. He studied piano and composition at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, where he honed his craft under the guidance of esteemed mentors. Larcher's compositions, such as "The Living Mountain" and his symphonies, have garnered critical acclaim for their emotional accessibility and clever construction. In addition to his composing career, Larcher is also an accomplished pianist, having performed with conductors like Claudio Abbado. His music invites audiences to engage deeply with each note, convincing them that every sound is precisely where it should be. Larcher's imaginative voice continues to make waves in the classical music world, with his works being featured in major festivals and concerts around the globe.