Petr Eben, the composer, was interned in Buchenwald concentration camp during World War II due to his father's Jewish origins, despite his family having converted to Christianity.
Historical Context
During the Communist era in Czechoslovakia, Petr Eben and other composers faced strict censorship, with only 'socialist realism' being promoted, and any dissonant music being considered 'an enemy of the people'.
Composer Biography
Petr Eben, the composer, was renowned as one of the world's finest concert organists and a fine pianist and cellist, in addition to his growing recognition as a composer.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Petr Eben's primary inspirations for his compositions were Gregorian chant and folksong, both of which he encountered early in his life.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Petr Eben's compositional style was shaped by his desire to communicate spiritual messages to the public, blending modern elements with understandable forms, rather than focusing on experimentation or shocking audiences.
Recording & Production
This album includes several 'first recordings' and one 'first recording on CD' of Petr Eben's chamber music for oboe, highlighting its rarity.
Compositional Technique
Petr Eben's Music for Oboe, Bassoon and Piano uses a blend of atonal and tonal elements, deriving its atonal parts from a five-interval fanfare and incorporating a Gregorian chorale for its tonal melody.
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