Both German Expressionism (Schoenberg, Berg, Alma Mahler) and French Impressionism (Debussy, Ravel, Boulanger sisters) explored a 'fascinating and almost erotic relationship between text and music,' pushing harmony and tonality to their limits.
Historical Context
The album's repertoire, spanning 1896-1914, showcases a unique period of musical richness characterized by 'lush modulations and expanded tonalities' and a new conception of sound and harmonic coloring.
Composition History
The poetry of Richard Dehmel, known for its imagery, passion, and sensuality, inspired many composers including Alexander Zemlinsky and Arnold Schoenberg, both featured on this album.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The album aims to bridge French Impressionism and German Expressionism, highlighting their shared 'voluptuous and almost decadent sensuality' rather than their differences.
Album & Artwork
The album title, "Licht in der Nacht" (Light in the Night), reflects the interplay of light and shadow, and a descent into sensual melancholy.
Performer Biography
Pianist Kunal Lahiry, an Indo-American artist, was chosen by Coline Dutilleul for his deep and nuanced playing and his similar approach to music, making him an ideal partner for this intimate dialogue between piano and voice.
Recording & Production
This album is mezzo-soprano Coline Dutilleul's first solo recording, for which she sought a visual expression of the music's poetry through Laurence Vray's photography.
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