Frank Martin's "Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943" is a profound and captivating orchestral work that delves into the themes of life, death, and the human experience. Composed during the tumultuous times of World War II, this album is a testament to Martin's ability to convey deep emotional and philosophical themes through music. The 22-track composition is a blend of marches, dances, and dramatic interludes, each piece intricately woven to create a cohesive narrative.
The album begins with a series of drum marches, setting a somber and reflective tone. As the tracks progress, Martin explores various encounters with death, from the grim reaper's dance with an old man to his interaction with a young girl, each scenario depicted with a unique musical style. The inclusion of dances like the Bourrée and Foxtrott adds a layer of complexity, contrasting the heavier themes with moments of levity and rhythm.
Frank Martin's mastery of orchestration is evident throughout the album, with each instrument contributing to the rich tapestry of sound. The duration of the album is approximately one hour and six minutes, offering a substantial and immersive listening experience. Released on June 20, 2016, by CPO, this album is a significant addition to Martin's discography and a compelling exploration of the human condition.
Tracks
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 1, 1st March of the DrumsFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 2, 2nd March of the DrumsFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 3, Der Grimmig TodtFrank Martin, Sacramentskoor Breda, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 4, Death and the Old ManFrank Martin, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 5, Death and the Mother with Her ChildFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 6, Das ewig LichtFrank Martin, Sacramentskoor Breda, Hineni String Orchestra, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 7, Death and the AthleteFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 8, Aus tiefer NotFrank Martin, Sacramentskoor Breda, Hineni String Orchestra, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 9, Death and the Rich ManFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 10, GaiementFrank Martin, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 11, BourréeFrank Martin, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 12, MarchFrank Martin, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 13, Death AloneFrank Martin, Ruben Tome, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 14, Death and the Young GirlFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 15, Es war ein wunderlicher KriegFrank Martin, Sacramentskoor Breda, Hineni String Orchestra, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 16a, Death and the SelfmurdererFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Christine von Arx, Eduard Grass-Haas, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 16b, MarchFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 17, FoxtrottFrank Martin, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 18, Other DanceFrank Martin, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Edith Habraken, Associação Recreativa Musical Amigos da Branca, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 19, MarchFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 20, Death and the Beautiful LadyFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Christine von Arx, Eduard Grass-Haas, Geoffrey Douglas Madge, Hineni String Orchestra, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 21, Durch Adams FallFrank Martin, Sacramentskoor Breda, Hineni String Orchestra, Bastiaan Blomhert
Ein Totentanz zu Basel im Jahre 1943: No. 22, RetraiteFrank Martin, Edith Habraken, Bastiaan Blomhert
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