Wolpe in Jerusalem

Album Description

Dive into the rich and innovative world of Stefan Wolpe with "Wolpe in Jerusalem," a captivating collection of avant-garde and chamber music compositions. Released on February 7, 2006, this album showcases Wolpe's unique voice and his significant contributions to the classical music landscape. The album features a diverse range of works, including the intricate "Passacaglia, Op. 23," the evocative "Bühnenmusik Zu Molière's Le malade imaginaire," and the dynamic "Konzert für 9 Instrumente, Op. 22," each piece demonstrating Wolpe's mastery of composition and his ability to push musical boundaries.

Performed by the esteemed Ensemble Recherche and the WDR Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Wayne Herbers, this recording brings together a blend of historical and contemporary performances that highlight Wolpe's enduring influence. The album spans a variety of moods and styles, from the somber and reflective to the lively and exuberant, offering a comprehensive overview of Wolpe's artistic vision.

With a duration of 1 hour and 17 minutes, "Wolpe in Jerusalem" is a testament to Stefan Wolpe's genius and his lasting impact on the world of classical music. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

7 februari 2006

2006 Mode Records

About Stefan Wolpe

Stefan Wolpe, born in Berlin in 1902, was a composer whose life and work traversed continents and artistic movements, reflecting a relentless spirit of exploration and innovation. A German-Jewish émigré, Wolpe's journey took him from the vibrant artistic circles of 1920s and 1930s Berlin, where he studied with Franz Schreker, Ferruccio Busoni, and Anton Webern, to the cultural ferment of Palestine, and finally to New York City, where he settled in 1938. His music, deeply influenced by his experiences and affiliations—ranging from the Bauhaus and Berlin agitprop theater to the Eighth Street Artists' Club and Black Mountain College—is a testament to his eclectic tastes and interdisciplinary approach.

Wolpe's compositions, which span over five decades, are marked by a dense eclecticism that absorbs ideas from post-tonality, bebop, and Arab classical musics. His works, such as "Battle Piece" and "Enactments for Three Pianos," reflect his personal and historical context, offering a profound and moving response to the upheavals of his time. As a committed modernist and a determined post-Webern composer, Wolpe's music is characterized by its striking originality and compelling intensity. His legacy endures through the efforts of the Stefan Wolpe Society, which works to preserve and promote his musical heritage, ensuring that future generations can continue to engage with his innovative and influential compositions.