Klenau divided his compositions into two groups: twelve-tone and non-twelve-tone, and he developed his own 'key-determined twelve-tone system' through his friendship with Alban Berg.
Cultural Impact
After Klenau's death in 1946, his music disappeared from view in a 'collective amnesia' until attempts to revive it with concerts, opera performances, and recordings began in the last decade of the 20th century.
Performer Biography
Søren Rastogi, a versatile Danish concert pianist, has performed with most of Denmark's symphony orchestras and is also a noted chamber musician and artistic director.
Historical Context
Klenau navigated Nazi Germany, expressing views aligned with the Nazis in writing and speech, though he never joined the party, to avoid being labeled 'degenerate'.
Composition History
None of the three works on this album were performed during Klenau's lifetime; they were discovered among his papers in 2005 and are characterized by a tonal language aimed at engaging the public.
Composer Biography
Paul von Klenau, born in Copenhagen, moved to Germany at 19 to further his composition studies and established a successful career there as a conductor and composer.
Performer Biography
Violin virtuoso Ziyu He made his debut with the Vienna Philharmonic at 18 and won the International Mozart Competition, Yehudi Menuhin Competition, and was named Eurovision Young Musician of the Year.
