Zemlinsky: Die Seejungfrau, Sinfonietta & Sarema Overture

Dive into the enchanting world of Alexander von Zemlinsky with this captivating album, featuring a selection of his most evocative orchestral works. Released in 1998, this album showcases Zemlinsky's mastery of orchestration and his unique voice in the realm of dark cabaret and late Romantic music.

The centerpiece of the album is "Die Seejungfrau" (The Mermaid), a three-movement orchestral fantasy inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's famous tale. This mesmerizing work is a testament to Zemlinsky's ability to paint vivid musical pictures, with each movement offering a distinct atmosphere, from the gentle ebb and flow of the sea to the intense, dramatic moments that bring the story to life.

Also included is Zemlinsky's "Sinfonietta, Op. 23," a compact yet powerful work that packs a wealth of musical ideas into its three concise movements. The album concludes with the "Sarema: Overture," a dramatic and sweeping introduction to an unfinished opera that highlights Zemlinsky's prowess as a dramatic composer.

This album is a fantastic introduction to Zemlinsky's music, offering a compelling mix of his most engaging and accessible works. With a total duration of just over an hour, it's an excellent way to spend an evening, immersing yourself in the rich, expressive world of this underappreciated composer. The album was released on the Chandos label and features the Danish National Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Thomas Dausgaard, ensuring a high standard of performance throughout.

Alexander von Zemlinsky, born in the culturally rich Leopoldstadt district of Vienna in 1871, was an Austrian composer and conductor whose influence resonates through the annals of classical music. A student at the prestigious Vienna Conservatory, Zemlinsky's compositions and conducting were deeply influenced by the giants of his time, including Brahms, Wagner, Mahler, and Schönberg. His works, though not household names, are a testament to the tumultuous and innovative musical landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Zemlinsky's personal life was as complex as his music. He was a mentor and lover to Alma Schindler, the future wife of Gustav Mahler, and his teaching roster included luminaries like Erich Korngold, Hans Krása, and Alban Berg. His own compositions, such as the "Lyrische Symphonie," showcase his mastery of the Wiener Jugendstil, blending dark cabaret elements with profound emotional depth.

Despite facing the tumultuous political climate of his time, Zemlinsky's legacy endures. His craftsmanship and innovative spirit continue to inspire, making him a pivotal figure in the evolution of modern music. Zemlinsky's journey from the streets of Vienna to the stages of New York is a story of artistic passion and resilience, reflecting the spirit of an era that forever changed the course of music history.