Zwiegespräche: Holliger & Kurtág

"Zwiegespräche: Holliger & Kurtág" is a captivating exploration of the shared musical language between two of classical music's most esteemed figures, Heinz Holliger and György Kurtág. Released on May 24, 2019, under the prestigious ECM New Series label, this album is a testament to the deep artistic connection between the two composers. Kurtág's remark, "Wir komponieren auf die gleiche Weise" (We compose in the same way), encapsulates the spirit of this collection, which spans a rich tapestry of chamber music pieces.

The album features a diverse range of compositions, including solo works, duets, and tributes to fellow musicians. Highlights include Holliger's "Hommage à Elliott Carter" and Kurtág's "Kroó György in memoriam," both of which pay tribute to influential figures in their lives. The tracklist also includes a series of poems set to music, such as "Airs – Sept poèmes," and solo pieces like "Einen Augenblick lang" in various instrumental versions.

With a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, "Zwiegespräche" offers a comprehensive journey through the intricate and evocative worlds of Holliger and Kurtág. The album is a celebration of their unique compositional styles and their enduring friendship, making it a significant addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

Heinz Holliger, born in Switzerland in 1939, is a multifaceted figure in the world of classical music, renowned as a composer, virtuoso oboist, and conductor. His extraordinary versatility and technical prowess have established him as one of the most prominent oboists of his generation. Holliger's repertoire spans Baroque and Classical masterpieces, as well as lesser-known Romantic works and his own compositions. He has collaborated with his wife, harpist Ursula Holliger, to perform contemporary pieces, and has inspired numerous composers, including Messiaen, Berio, and Stockhausen, to create works specifically for him.

As a composer, Holliger is known for his uncompromising avant-garde style, with a catalog that includes operas such as "Schneewittchen" (1998) and "Lunea," as well as a wide range of chamber and orchestral works. His music often draws inspiration from poets grappling with themes of insanity and mortality. Holliger's journey in music began with studies at the conservatories of Bern and Basel, followed by advanced training in Paris with renowned musicians like Pierre Pierlot and Yvonne Lefébure. His career has seen him perform with leading orchestras and ensembles worldwide, earning him numerous awards and accolades. Whether conducting, composing, or performing, Heinz Holliger's contributions to the classical music landscape are both profound and enduring.