Dive into the captivating world of Rudolf Wagner-Regeny's "Genesis," a remarkable album released on November 6, 2020, under the CapriccioNR label. This collection is a testament to the versatile genius of Wagner-Regeny, a composer, conductor, and pianist born in Szászrégen, Austria-Hungary (now Reghin, Romania) in 1903, who left an indelible mark on the musical landscape before his passing in 1969.
"Genesis" is a symphonic journey through Wagner-Regeny's compositions, spanning a diverse range of styles and moods. The album opens with the six-part orchestral suite "Genesis," inspired by the biblical book of the same name, each movement depicting different aspects of creation. From the celestial "Die cœlum terram" to the lively "Pisces et aves" and the dramatic "Bestias, jumenta et reptillia," this suite is a vivid exploration of nature and creation.
The album continues with "Orchestral Music with Piano," featuring four movements that showcase the dynamic interplay between orchestra and piano. From the intense "Heftig, gehämmert" to the delicate "Einfach, zart," and the lively "Freimütig, frisch" and graceful "Anmutig bewegt," these pieces highlight Wagner-Regeny's mastery of orchestration and piano accompaniment.
"Mythological Figures" is a trio of orchestral pieces, each inspired by a different deity: the earthy "Ceres," the aquatic "Amphitrite," and the lunar "Diana." These pieces are a fascinating blend of myth and music, each bringing a unique atmosphere and character.
The album concludes with "5 French Piano Pieces," a delightful set of solo piano works. The first three pieces, "Parfum No. 1, L'heure bleue," "Parfum No. 2, Mitsouko," and "Parfum No. 3, Jicky," are inspired by perfumes, each evoking a different scent and mood. The final two pieces, "Hommage à la cuisine No. 1, Le coq au vin," and "Hommage à la cuisine No. 2, L'étoile verte," are culinary homages, bringing a playful and appetizing conclusion to the album.
"Genesis" is a compelling exploration of Wagner-Regeny's musical world, offering a rich and varied listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
