Description

Kindertotenlieder & Rückert Lieder - Lieder aus der Jugendzeit / LP Vinyl

Bell 175

Product Details

Format: Digital recording
Catalog Number: Bell 175 Stereo A
Recording: Recorded March 21-22, 1983, and February 29, 1984, at Sveriges Radio, Stockholm and Malmö
Layout: Kiki Berlin
Label: Bluebell of Sweden

Overview

This stunning digital recording features contralto Birgit Finnilä and pianist Geoffrey Parsons performing two of Gustav Mahler’s most emotionally powerful song cycles: Kindertotenlieder and Rückert Lieder, as well as selections from Lieder aus der Jugendzeit.

Mahler's Kindertotenlieder, a collection of songs set to poems by Friedrich Rückert, is one of the most poignant works in the art song repertoire. The cycle deals with the tragic theme of child loss, inspired by Rückert’s own mourning for his children. Mahler, who had also suffered profound personal loss in his life, brings an unparalleled depth to these songs. Finnilä’s rich contralto voice brings the profound sorrow of these works to life, with Geoffrey Parsons providing sensitive and expressive piano accompaniment.

The Rückert Lieder represent a more intimate side of Mahler’s emotional range, touching on themes of love, solitude, and spiritual yearning. These songs, composed between 1901 and 1904, reveal Mahler’s personal reflections on life, love, and faith. The Lieder aus der Jugendzeit offer a glimpse into Mahler’s earlier compositional style, showcasing youthful optimism and personal expression.