The Original Viennese Schrammel Quartet, featured on this album, consists of two violins, a contra guitar, and is complemented by a button accordion or a G clarinet.
Compositional Technique
The version of Keintate I, II (parts) for baritone and Viennese Schrammel quartet uses a specific Schrammel harmonica, which differs from a usual accordion, posing a challenge and special attraction for the composer.
Performer Biography
Baritone Holger Falk is known for his flexibility and vivid expression, leading to nominations for 'singer of the year' by Opernwelt magazine for his interpretations in contemporary music theatre.
Cultural Impact
Ernst Aloysius Kein, whose texts are used in this work, wrote in Viennese dialect, which is described as a language in itself, not merely a dialect.
Composition History
Composer Friedrich Cerha initially declined requests to write for the Schrammel quartet, only agreeing after attending a concert by the attensam quartett.
Composer Biography
Friedrich Cerha engaged in active resistance during WWII, deserting twice from the German Wehrmacht and waiting out the war as a hut keeper and alpine guide in Tyrol.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Friedrich Cerha states that despite his age, he is always searching for something new, which leads him back to finding new sides of himself.
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