Lachenmann Mädchen

Michael Gielen, one of the great champions of the avant-garde among symphony conductors, led the three orchestral works by the German composer Helmut Lachenmann included on this 2001 Kairos disc, with three different German orchestras.

After a string of fine Helmut Lachenmann releases on several labels specializing in contemporary classical music, notably Audivis Montaigne, Schwankungen Am Rand (Fluctuations at the Edge) marks his debut on ECM New Series, and the "notoriously difficult" composer celebrates the occasion by providing an admirably clear introductory essay to his works. The title track, subtitled "Music for Brass and Strings" (somewhat misleading, as percussion instruments, notably two pianos and four specially designed thunder sheets, play a prominent role), was completed in 1975, but has lost none of its power to surprise, both in terms of its sound material…

The hours I spent learning Beethoven‘s last three sonatas were among the most cherished of my life. They were filled with the exhilaration of being in the presence of something magnificent, something truly meaningful. Over the years, these sonatas have become my intimate companions – a continuous source of learning and an always sympathetic yet mercilessly honest corrective for me… I learned Helmut Lachenmann‘s Wiegenmusik (Cradle Music) as a teenager, around the same time I actually met him at my grandfather‘s home.

On-going Lars Vogt’s discography, whose complete EMI recordings will be released as a beautiful physical boxset this fall. Barely 21 and having just won a prize at the prestigious Leeds Piano Competition, Vogt signed his first contract with EMI and released his debut album in 1991. Making its digital premiere, this recording includes a very ambitious program with Schubert’s Fantaisie-Sonata, Brahms’ last set of piano pieces, Op. 119, a sonata by Haydn and Lachenmann’s variations after a Schubert’s delicate écossaise. A thundering start in the musical industry!

Death and the Maiden by Franz Schubert is a beautiful piece of music that has captured the hearts of listeners for many years. The Goldmund Quartet is a well-known classical music ensemble, and their performance is characterized by their dynamic interplay and subtle nuances. They bring out the beauty of the piece with their masterful use of phrasing and tonal quality. The quartet's interpretation is both nuanced and emotional, capturing the essence of Schubert's original composition.