Günter Wand believed that classical music should be broadly defined, encompassing works from Monteverdi and Bach through to 20th-century pioneers like Stravinsky and Schoenberg.
Historical Context
After World War II, Günter Wand returned to a destroyed Cologne and was tasked with rebuilding its operatic and concert life, becoming Germany's youngest General Music Director.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Günter Wand's unique approach involved interpreting classical works with a modern awareness, seeing Beethoven through the eyes of Stravinsky, and evaluating new music by classical standards.
Performer Biography
Roland Greutter, the violinist for the Bach concerto, is the leader of the NDR Symphony Orchestra and a sought-after soloist with a wide-ranging repertoire from Baroque to contemporary music.
Performer Biography
Günter Wand, the conductor on this album, began his professional career at age 20 and learned his craft "from the ground up" as a rehearsal pianist and opera conductor.
Performer Biography
Robert Casadesus, the pianist for the Beethoven concerto, was a significant pianist of his time, specializing in French repertoire but also a great interpreter of Beethoven.
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