Pfitzner's relationship with his first wife, Mimi, was severely tested by his close artistic understanding with Ilse Lerner, who wrote the words for his Christelflein.
Composition History
Pfitzner dedicated Hölderlin's "Abbitte" to his first wife, Mimi, in 1921, and recited the same poem at her graveside five years later.
Recording & Production
This album is part of a collected edition of all the songs by Hans Pfitzner and Erich Wolfgang Korngold, recorded for Naxos by pianist Klaus Simon.
Compositional Technique
In his setting of "An die Mark," Pfitzner creates a unique sound-world using numerous ligatures, veiled strong beats, linear counterpoint, and harmonic shifts, which anticipates the sound of his opera Palestrina.
Composer Biography
Hans Pfitzner dedicated his song "Ich und Du" to his wife, Mimi, using the coded dedication 'M. M.' for 'to My Mimi'.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Many of Pfitzner's songs on this album explore themes of withdrawal and introversion, such as the recollection of past love, melancholy nature imagery, and the finite nature of human existence.
Composition History
The "Weihnachtslied" on this album is a world premiere recording and is Pfitzner's only composition inspired by a 'genuine' folk song.
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