Langgaard's music was deeply religious, serving as the medium through which he fought his religious struggles, often expressing themes of good versus evil and fear of perdition.
Composer Biography
Langgaard's father, Siegfried Langgaard, had studied with Franz Liszt, and his piano concerto was the first instance of the great late-romantic concerto in Denmark.
Compositional Technique
Langgaard's compositions often feature unusual and evocative tempo and character indications, such as "furioso mortifero," "schnervole," "pesante colerico," and nature-inspired titles like "Forest Roar" and "Thunderclouds."
Performer Biography
Ilya Stupel, the conductor on this album, was born in Vilnius, Lithuania, and was considered a child prodigy, joining the Conservatory in Vilnius at a young age.
Composer Biography
Rued Langgaard, the composer, was the only child of two pianists, Siegfried Langgaard and Emma Langgaard, and grew up respecting the classical-romantic tradition in Danish music.
Performer Biography
Ilya Stupel's career was significantly impacted by his Jewish descent, forcing him and his family to relocate multiple times, including from Poland to Sweden.
Composer Biography
Langgaard was considered a child prodigy, mastering Chopin's mazurkas and Schumann's DavidsbiindlerTdnze by age seven, and making his public debut improvising at the organ at age 12.
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