
Krenek: Piano Works
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1/7Recording & Production
This album was recorded in the Schubertsaal of the Konzerthaus Vienna on July 23 and 24, 2011.
Cultural Impact
Krenek achieved immense success in the late 1920s with his work Jonny spielt auf, which was dubbed a 'jazz opera' and performed on European stages.
Composer Biography
Ernst Krenek, a composer, pianist, conductor, and writer, was considered one of the most prominent artists in German-speaking countries between the two World Wars.
Performer Biography
Stanislav Khristenko, the pianist on this album, won two first prizes at the Virginia Waring International Piano Competition, including a special Ernst Krenek Prize.
Composer Biography
In 1938, Krenek emigrated to the USA after his works were branded as 'degenerate music' by the Third Reich, effectively robbing him of his livelihood.
Historical Context
Krenek's opera Karl V, the first twelve-tone opera in music history, was dropped from its premiere rehearsals in 1934 due to pressure from Austrian National Socialists.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Krenek's shift to twelve-tone techniques was radical, as he knew it would reduce the possibility of public recognition for his music.














