Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Alexander von Zemlinsky with this compelling collection of his works, released on CapriccioNR. This album, recorded in 2020, offers a deep dive into Zemlinsky's unique compositional style, blending the dark allure of cabaret with the richness of classical orchestration.
The album opens with Zemlinsky's Sinfonietta, Op. 23, a three-movement work that showcases his mastery of orchestral color and form. The lively outer movements frame a haunting central ballade, creating a dramatic and engaging listening experience.
Following the Sinfonietta, the album presents six songs based on poems by Maurice Maeterlinck, Op. 13. These songs, arranged for voice and orchestra, offer a glimpse into Zemlinsky's lyrical side, with each song painting a vivid picture of Maeterlinck's evocative poetry.
The album concludes with excerpts from Zemlinsky's opera Der König Kandaules, Op. 26. These selections, including the dramatic Prelude to Act III and the haunting aria "Mein Ring," provide a taste of Zemlinsky's operatic genius and his ability to create memorable, dramatic music.
This album is a celebration of Zemlinsky's musical legacy, offering a compelling introduction to his unique voice in the world of classical music. With a duration of just under an hour, it's an ideal way to spend an evening exploring the dark cabaret sounds of this remarkable composer.