Walter Braunfels: Große Messe, Op. 37

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the profound spirituality and rich romanticism of Walter Braunfels' "Große Messe, Op. 37," a masterful composition that stands as a testament to the composer's peak creative period. Written between 1923 and 1926, this choral work is a deeply personal and sincere exploration of faith, crafted by one of Germany's most esteemed composers, pianists, and music educators.

This album, released on December 10, 2016, under the Capriccio label, offers a comprehensive journey through the seven movements of Braunfels' monumental mass: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Offertorium, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei, with an additional Interludium. The work, though not liturgical in nature, resonates with a deep and heartfelt spirituality that will captivate and inspire listeners.

The performance features the exceptional talents of Simone Schneider, Gerhild Romberger, Christian Elsner, and Robert Holl, accompanied by the Konzerthausorchester Berlin under the baton of Jörg-Peter Weigle. The album's duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes provides ample space for the intricate details and profound depths of Braunfels' composition to unfold.

Walter Braunfels, known for his high-romantic style firmly rooted in German compositional tradition, brings a unique and compelling voice to the choral repertoire. His "Große Messe, Op. 37" is a forgotten gem of the early 20th century, deserving of wider recognition and appreciation. This album is an excellent introduction to Braunfels' sacred choral works, showcasing his remarkable compositional skill and spiritual insight.

10 dec 2016

2016 Capriccio

About Walter Braunfels

Walter Braunfels, born in Frankfurt in 1882, was a pivotal figure in German music, renowned for his contributions as a composer, pianist, and music educator. Hailing from a musically inclined family, Braunfels' early education was nurtured by his mother, a great-niece of the celebrated composer Louis Spohr. His formal training began with piano studies under James Kwast at the Hoch Conservatory in Frankfurt, followed by composition lessons with Ludwig Thuille in Munich. Braunfels' career flourished between the two world wars, during which he was one of the most frequently performed opera composers of his time. His notable works include the opera "The Birds," based on Aristophanes' comedy, and a rich repertoire of orchestral, chamber, and piano pieces. Despite facing adversity during the Nazi era, when his music was banned and he was labeled a "half-Jew," Braunfels' legacy endures. He also served as the founding director of the Cologne Academy of Music until 1933. His compositions, steeped in the German Classical-Romantic tradition, continue to captivate audiences with their depth and emotional resonance.