Alexander von Zemlinsky - Zemlinsky: Der Zwerg & Opern-Vorspiele & -Zwischenspiele (LP)

Alexander von Zemlinsky's "Der Zwerg & Opern-Vorspiele & -Zwischenspiele" is a captivating journey into the world of dark cabaret and opera, released under the Warner Classics label. This double-CD set offers a rich and immersive experience, featuring the complete live recording of "Der Zwerg," a tragic fairy tale in one act, along with a selection of operatic preludes and interludes from Zemlinsky's other works.

The album showcases the extraordinary talent of Alexander von Zemlinsky, a prolific Austrian composer whose works are marked by their dramatic intensity and rich harmonic language. "Der Zwerg," based on Oscar Wilde's "The Birthday of the Infanta," is a haunting exploration of themes such as beauty, love, and the grotesque. The live recording captures the raw emotion and power of the performance, with standout tracks like "Flink faule Kerle!" and "Die Stunde der Gratulation" highlighting the dramatic range of the cast.

In addition to "Der Zwerg," the album features preludes and interludes from Zemlinsky's other operas, including "Sarema," "Es war einmal," "Kleider machen Leute," "Der Kreidekreis," and "Der König Kandaules." These pieces offer a glimpse into the composer's versatility and his ability to create evocative and atmospheric music. The Gürzenich-Orchester Kölner Philharmoniker, conducted by James Conlon, provides a lush and nuanced accompaniment, bringing Zemlinsky's scores to life with precision and passion.

With a total runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes, this album is a substantial and rewarding listen for fans of opera and dark cabaret. The combination of live recordings and studio performances offers a dynamic and engaging experience, showcasing the best of Zemlinsky's dramatic and emotional range. Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.