Weill: Propheten

Album Description

Experience the profound and powerful compositions of Kurt Weill with his seminal work "Propheten," now available in a captivating live recording. This album, released on June 2, 2023, under the Capriccio label, offers a unique blend of opera and orchestral mastery, showcasing Weill's final work composed in Europe before his move to the United States. "Propheten" is a biblical cantata originally intended as the final act of "The Eternal Road," featuring a rich tapestry of vocal and instrumental performances that bring the ancient text to life.

The album begins with "Hatikvah," setting the stage for a journey through the prophetic narratives of the Old Testament. The performances are brought to life by an ensemble of talented vocalists and the ORF Vienna Radio Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the esteemed Dennis Russell Davies. The live recording captures the raw energy and precision of the performances, making it a standout addition to any classical music collection.

In addition to "Propheten," the album includes four Walt Whitman songs, arranged for voice and orchestra, adding a layer of poetic depth to the collection. These songs, performed live, showcase Weill's versatility and his ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly.

The album features a stellar cast, including Thomas Hampson, Albert Dohmen, Kurt Azesberger, Michael Papst, Gottfried Hornik, Bernd Frohlich, and Ursula Fiedler, each bringing their unique talents to the performances. The Wiener Jeunesse-Chor and Gumpoldskirchner Spatzen add harmonic richness, making this recording a testament to Weill's enduring legacy.

"Propheten" is not just a collection of songs but a comprehensive exploration of Weill's musical genius. The live performances, combined with the historical significance of the compositions, make this album a significant contribution to the classical music canon. Whether you are a longtime fan of Kurt Weill or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

2 juni 2023

2023 Capriccio, 1040 Vienna, Austria

About Kurt Weill

Kurt Weill, born in Dessau, Germany, in 1900, was a pioneering composer whose innovative spirit bridged the worlds of classical music and theater. Best known for his collaborations with Bertolt Brecht, Weill's works often carried a sharp social commentary, reflecting his belief in music's power to serve a socially useful purpose. Their most famous collaboration, "The Threepenny Opera," introduced the iconic ballad "Mack the Knife" and revolutionized the musical theater landscape. Weill's compositions, ranging from operas to Broadway musicals, seamlessly blended various musical styles, including American popular music, ragtime, and jazz. His notable works include "Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny," "Knickerbocker Holiday," featuring the beloved "September Song," and "Lost in the Stars," which addressed the pressing issue of racism in South Africa. Weill's journey took him from his early years in Germany to his later life in the United States, where he became a naturalized citizen in 1943. His legacy endures as one of the most important and innovative composers of the 20th century.