Hans Abrahamsen - Abrahamsen: Zählen und Erzählen (LP)

Hans Abrahamsen's "Zählen und Erzählen," released on January 30, 2015, under the Winter & Winter label, is a captivating journey through the composer's intricate and expressive musical language. This 50-minute album is a collection of orchestral and piano works that showcase Abrahamsen's unique ability to blend technical mastery with profound emotional depth.

The album opens with "Four Pieces for Orchestra," a quartet of movements that range from the slow and expressive "In sehr langsamer Zeit" to the stormy and agitated "Stürmisch, bewegt." The orchestral pieces are followed by the "Concerto for Piano and Orchestra," a four-movement work that highlights the dynamic interplay between solo piano and full orchestra. The concerto's movements, from the energetic "Allegro volante e nervoso" to the serene "Fluente ma tranquillo," demonstrate Abrahamsen's skill in crafting diverse and engaging musical narratives.

The second half of the album is dedicated to "Ten Studies for Piano," a series of solo piano pieces that explore a wide range of moods and styles. From the dreamy "Traumlied" to the lively "Boogie-Woogie" and the introspective "Blues," these studies offer a comprehensive overview of Abrahamsen's pianistic prowess and his ability to convey complex emotions through the medium of solo piano.

Throughout "Zählen und Erzählen," Hans Abrahamsen's compositions are marked by their intricate rhythms, rich harmonies, and evocative melodies. The album is a testament to the composer's enduring relevance and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving. Whether you are a longtime fan of contemporary classical music or a newcomer to the genre, "Zählen und Erzählen" is sure to leave a lasting impression.