Lieder (Complete), Vol. 1 Naxos 8.572602
This first volume of the complete Lieder by Hans Pfitzner spans almost his entire compositional life, focussing on songs for high voice written from about 1884 to 1923. Though often considered a late-Romantic, Pfitzner moved through successive periods of stylistic change and remains one of the most representative German composers of his time. Alte Weisen (Ancient Airs) is a concise yet highly varied song cycle, whilst the earlier Lieder are strongly characterised settings of some powerfully expressive texts.
Review:
Hans Pfitzner’s early years was largely spent in the theatre both as a
conductor and composer, his catalogue of works in most genres included over a
hundred lieder. Essentially a miniaturist in this oeuvre, many songs last little
over a minute, the eight that form Alte Weisen (Ancient Airs) lasting little
over thirteen minutes. Yet he was certainly a master of his craft, the disc
making pleasurable listening, much of it in lighthearted mood. The intrinsically
‘young’ voice of the much experienced opera singer, Britta Stallmeister, is
well suited to such perky songs…Klaus Simon’s accompaniment is responsive
to both the singer and composer.
David Denton, David's Review Corner