Lautten Compagney - War & Peace - 1618:1918 (LP)

"War & Peace - 1618:1918" by Lautten Compagney is a profound exploration of historical and musical resonance, marking significant anniversaries with a blend of old and new. This 2018 release commemorates the 400th anniversary of the Thirty Years' War and the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I, weaving together compositions from different eras to create a cohesive and thought-provoking experience.

The album features a rich tapestry of chamber music, with 30 tracks spanning a duration of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It showcases the versatility and skill of Lautten Compagney, who, under the direction of Wolfgang Katschner, masterfully arranges and performs pieces that range from the Baroque era to modern compositions. The ensemble's collaboration with soprano Dorothee Mields adds a layer of depth and nuance, particularly in the arrangements for soprano and Baroque ensemble.

"War & Peace - 1618:1918" includes a mix of original works and arrangements, such as pieces by Heinrich Schütz, Erik Satie, and contemporary composers. The album's eclectic tracklist features works like "Lieder eines armen Mädchens," "Galliard Cantus XX," and "Gnossienne No. 3," each contributing to the album's overarching theme of reflection and remembrance. The inclusion of works like "Krieges-Angst-Seufftzer" and "Letzte Rede einer vormals stolzen und gleich jetzt sterbenden Jungfrauen" underscores the album's historical context and its exploration of the human condition in times of conflict.

The album was released on Deutsche Harmonia Mundi and has been critically acclaimed, earning the Opus Klassik Award in 2019. "War & Peace - 1618:1918" is a testament to Lautten Compagney's artistic vision and their commitment to preserving and innovating within the realm of classical music. It is an album that invites listeners to contemplate the enduring impact of historical events through the lens of timeless musical compositions.