Alexander Lonquich & The Colibrì Ensemble
Release Date: 18 May 2018
Label: Odradek Records
Packaging Type: Digipak
No of Units: 1
Barcode: 0855317003554
Genres: Classical Solo Instrumental
Description
Acclaimed pianist Alexander Lonquich has long been intrigued by the complex interrelationships between Schumann and Burgmuller and their circle of influences. Lonquich brings his unique and scintillating insight to this performance of Schumann's Piano Concerto in A minor and The Colibri Ensemble bring their finesse to Burgmüller's Symphony No.2 in D major, Op.11.
The lives of Robert Schumann and Norbert Burgmüller intersect in fascinating ways. Both were born in 1810, and both spent significant periods of their lives in Düsseldorf, which is how Schumann came to orchestrate the Scherzo of Burgmüller's Symphony No. 2 in D major, Op. 11.
The conversational principles of the concerto's first movement are taken even further in the central Intermezzo, in which Schumann creates a sense of intimate dialogue enhanced by the delicate, almost chamber-like treatment of his orchestral forces. We then tumble effortlessly into the finale, which is full of subtle touches that reveal a composer at the peak of his powers: there are no perfunctory finale fireworks, but rather a movement of quirky good humour and perfectly-judged invention.
Burgmüller's Second Symphony unfolds with charming ease, undulating between genial lyricism and stormier interjections reminiscent of Beethoven's 'Pastoral' Symphony. The work culminates in the Scherzo, a tussle between a refined dance, perhaps representing the civilised aspects of humanity, and sudden torrents of sound reflecting the irrepressible forces of Nature.
Alexander Lonquich is joined on this disc by The Colibrì Ensemble, a chamber orchestra which performs regularly in Pescara, Italy, where it has its own concert season. Founded in 2013 by Andrea Gallo, this vibrant collection of musicians has already forged strong relationships with a host of outstanding artists, including a special connection with Alexander Lonquich, who is now a regular guest each season.
Tracklisting
Nuno Côrte-Real, Ensemble Darcos & Coro Ricercare
Artur Pizarro, Sinfonieorchester Wuppertal, Julia Jones
Ingibjorg Azima
Jenaer Philharmonie, Simon Gaudenz
Carion Wind Quintet
Johannes Fleischmann
Tony Addison Sextet
Vasco Pimentel Trio
Slava Guerchovitch
Nora von Marschall
Lea Suter
Aart Bergwerff
Ran Jia
Johannes Krahl
Elke Volker
Henry Fairs
