John Smyth wrote:
>If you are trying out Zem, you should *by any means possible*
>check out the works of Shrecker.
I have the operas of Schreker's that have been recorded. They are very
good, highly sensual, and I recommend them strongly.
>I like Zem too, but Shrecker patently outdoes him in every way.
I can't deny that Zemlinsky's output varies qite a bit. However, his best
works compare favorably with Schreker's.
Roger Hecht wrote:
>And a recording I've been pushing for some time: Die Seejungrau
>with Dausgaard.
That recording, on Chandos, is great and one of Zemlinsky's best works.
Roger also mentioned the operas, string quartets, and symphonies of
Zemlinsky. I have found the operas variable in quality but definitely
worth knowing. The quartets are excellent, and I've been listening to
the Artis on Nimbus and Prazak on Praga frequently. The symphonies are
also fine works, although they are early works as Roger noted.
Zemlinsky is not a household name, but he's a fine composer who I enjoy
just a little less than Strauss. The late romantic period rates highly
with me, and I have found that Zemlinsky, Schreker, Schmidt, Pfitzner,
et al, provide a welcome alternative to Strauss, the champ of late
romanticism.
Don Satz
[log in to unmask]
|