ARNOLD SCHOENBERG (1874-1951): 6 Songs for Soprano and Orchestra, Op. 8, Friede auf Erden for Chorus, Op. 13, 6 Pieces for Male Chorus, Op. 35, Ei, du Lütte for Chorus, Kol Nidre for Rabbi-Narrator, Mixed Chorus and Orchestra, Op. 39, 3 excerpts from Moses und Aron.
Catalogue Number: 01J053
Label: Naxos
Reference: 8.557525
Format: CD
Price: $11.98
Description: This collection (all new recordings) includes much little-recorded vocal music, principally the opus 8 songs from 1903-04, in which the obvious harmonic and melodic influence of Wagner is counterbalanced by a more personal instrumentation. The fiendishly difficult six pieces for male chorus from 1929-30 are rarely performed at all (although one is tonal and others partially so) while the 13-minute Kol Nidre from 1938 is a pleasant, atmospheric little surprise. Texts available on-line. Jennifer Welch-Babidge (soprano), David Wilson-Johnson (narrator), Simon Joly Chorale, Philharmonia Orchestra; Robert Craft.