Wolpe: Zeus und Elida etc

Album Description

"Zeus und Elida etc." is a captivating exploration of avant-garde chamber music, showcasing the innovative compositions of Stefan Wolpe. Released in 1999 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, this album presents a unique blend of genres and styles, reflecting Wolpe's diverse musical influences and experiences. Born in Berlin, Wolpe's early exposure to the city's vibrant music scene, including its working-class districts, is evident in his compositions, which often incorporate elements of jazz and popular music.

The album is divided into two main sections: "Zeus und Elida" and "Schöne Geschichten Op. 5b." The former is a multi-movement work that combines spoken text with instrumental music, creating a dramatic and engaging listening experience. The latter is a suite of six short pieces, each inspired by a different theme, such as science, religion, and love. The album concludes with three standalone pieces: "Blues," "Stimmen aus dem Massengrab," and "Marsch," each offering a unique perspective on Wolpe's musical style.

Throughout the album, Wolpe's use of unconventional instrumentation and harmonic language is evident, making "Zeus und Elida etc." a fascinating listen for both classical music enthusiasts and those interested in the avant-garde. The album's duration of 57 minutes provides a satisfying and immersive experience, showcasing Wolpe's unique voice and innovative approach to composition.

21 december 1999

℗ 2000 Decca Music Group Limited

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.