Wolf: Orchesterlieder

Delve into the rich tapestry of Hugo Wolf's orchestral songwriting with this captivating collection, "Wolf: Orchesterlieder." This album, released in 2016 under the Orfeo label, showcases the composer's mastery of orchestration and his deep connection to the poetic works of Goethe, Mörike, Eichendorff, and others. Spanning just over 55 minutes, the album features 17 finely crafted songs, each a testament to Wolf's unique voice and his ability to blend orchestral colors with the human voice.

The album opens with a series of Goethe-Lieder, beautifully arranged for voice and orchestra, followed by selections from Mörike-Lieder and other song cycles. Each piece is a delicate balance of text and music, where Wolf's orchestration serves to enhance and illuminate the poetry. The performances are led by the talented baritone Benjamin Appl, accompanied by the Jenaer Philharmonie under the baton of Simon Gaudenz, ensuring a rich and nuanced interpretation of these works.

Wolf's orchestral songs are less frequently performed than his piano accompaniments, making this album a valuable addition to any classical music collection. The recordings, made in the Volkshaus Jena, capture the warmth and clarity of the performances, allowing the listener to appreciate the intricate details of Wolf's scoring. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Hugo Wolf or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a compelling introduction to his orchestral songwriting and a chance to experience some of his most beloved songs in a new light.