Songs by Schubert and Klemmstein (CD) / Eberhard Klemmstein

In this extraordinary project, two musical worlds merge into a moving sound journey: the timeless songs of Franz Schubert and the modern, poetic works of composer Eberhard Klemmstein. Renowned baritone Christian Hilz and pianist Dorian Keilhack interpret these works with deep sensitivity and expressiveness, bringing the timbres of both eras to life. Eight selected Schubert songs are juxtaposed with seven songs by Klemmstein – a conscious juxtaposition that spans the thematic tension of "moon" and "lament" across the ages. Eberhard Klemmstein draws on the folk-song simplicity that also characterizes Schubert's songs in his compositions. His works expand this simplicity with a virtuosic, modern musical language that brings the traditional art song into the present. The settings of poems by Goethe, Hesse, and Rilke give these art songs a fresh, contemporary voice and explore existential dimensions such as longing and transience. The artists are united by their dedication to literature and the intimate form of the art song, which can be experienced here in all its depth. For Hilz, the art song is a matter close to his heart and a "mission" at the same time – an invitation to rediscover the unifying power of music and poetry. With this project, Hilz, Keilhack, and Klemmstein create a musical space where the timeless power of the themes of longing, loss, and transmigration of souls can be felt in a very direct way.