Composer: Arne Nordheim
Works: Complete Violin Music; Concerto for Violin and Orchestra; Duplex for Violin and Cello; Partita für Paul
Performers: Peter Herresthal (violin), Oystein Sonstad (cello), Mats Claesson (electronics), Stavanger Symphony Orchestra, Eivind Aadland (conductor)
Recording: Recorded at Stavanger Concert Hall (November 2000), Lanna Church, Sweden (June 2001), and Lindesmannsalen, Oslo (April 1997)
Label: BIS
Arne Nordheim, a towering figure in Norwegian contemporary music, has long grappled with the dualities that define his oeuvre: the tension between tradition and innovation, and the dance between the explosive and the introspective. As he approaches his ninetieth year, this comprehensive collection of his complete violin music offers a panoramic view of his artistic evolution, marked by a distinctive integration of acoustic and electronic elements. The present disc presents three key works that encapsulate Nordheim’s stylistic breadth, each shedding light on his complex relationship with both Norwegian cultural heritage and the avant-garde movements of the late twentieth century.
The “Concerto for Violin and Orchestra,” a thirty-minute single movement, stands as an audacious testament to Nordheim’s vision. Here, he orchestrates a formidable soundscape through the innovative use of percussion ensembles, crafting a sonic tapestry that is at once granular and lush. Peter Herresthal’s interpretation is vibrant; his technical prowess allows him to navigate the work’s demanding passages with both fervor and delicacy. The concerto oscillates between explosive outbursts and moments of haunting stillness, an emotional dichotomy that Herresthal captures impeccably. A striking moment occurs at 12:14, where the oboe’s poignant winding figure emerges from a dense orchestral fabric, illustrating Nordheim’s masterful balance of color and texture. The brass sections contribute a ferocity that is matched by the solo violin’s soaring lines, notably around the 23:41 mark, where Herresthal’s vibrato intensifies, drawing the listener into a visceral experience.
In “Duplex,” originally conceived for violin and viola and now reimagined for violin and cello, the interplay between Herresthal and Oystein Sonstad is electrifying. The engineering on this recording merits special mention; the close miking creates an enveloping sound that amplifies the explosive pizzicatos and dynamic contrasts inherent in the score. Nordheim’s use of the tempo marking “Energico” not only underscores the vigor of the work but also reveals his penchant for dramatic contrasts. Sonstad’s performance complements Herresthal’s with precision, as both musicians execute gunshot pizzicatos that punctuate the dense harmonic language, resulting in a compelling dialogue that echoes through the acoustics of Lanna Church.
The “Partita für Paul,” inspired by Paul Klee’s visual art, further showcases Nordheim’s innovative approach to the violin. Each of its five movements resonates with the thematic essence of Klee’s paintings, merging visual and auditory art forms. The incorporation of electronic elements, particularly the use of tape delays to create a canon-like texture, adds a contemporary layer to the traditional partita form. Herresthal’s scintillating left-hand pizzicatos and lyrical lines emerge vividly, particularly in the movement based on Klee’s “The Twittering Machine,” where the imitative effects resonate with a playful yet poignant authenticity.
This BIS recording upholds a high standard of sound quality, ensuring that every nuance of Nordheim’s intricate textures is fully realized. The engineering captures the dynamic range and clarity required for such complex works, allowing listeners to appreciate the subtleties that define Nordheim’s compositional style. When compared to other notable recordings, this collection stands out for its cohesive presentation and the interpretative depth offered by the performers.
The disc ultimately serves not only as an archive of Nordheim’s contributions to violin literature but also as a compelling exploration of the rich, multifaceted identity he has crafted over decades. Each work is a testament to his ability to blend the avant-garde with the lyrical, forging a path that resonates with both tradition and modernity. This recording is essential listening for anyone seeking to understand the evolution of contemporary music in a global context, and it firmly establishes Nordheim as a composer whose voice remains vibrantly alive.
