Robert Kahn, a German-Jewish composer, was forced to flee his native Germany in January 1939 at the age of 73 due to Nazi persecution.
Historical Context
Ensemble Émigré, the performers on this album, grew out of a project at the Royal College of Music in London that explored music by German and Austrian composers who came to Britain as refugees from Nazi persecution in the 1930s.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Unlike the songs of his contemporary Richard Strauss, Robert Kahn's lieder avoid operatic virtuosity, aiming instead for sincerity, naturalness, spirituality, and truthful expression.
Composition History
Kahn's 'Tagebuch in Tönen' (Diary in Tones), also known as 'Leaves from the Tree of Life', is a cycle of 1160 pieces composed over 14 years, with the majority written after he fled to Britain.
Recording & Production
This album features the world-premiere recording of Robert Kahn's Quintet in C minor Op. 54 for piano, violin, cello, clarinet, and horn.
Compositional Technique
Robert Kahn's Quintet Op. 54 features an unusual combination of instruments, including clarinet and horn, which allows for an almost orchestral texture.
