Composer: Wolfgang Rihm
Works: Jagden und Formen (1995/2001)
Performers: Ensemble Modern; Dominique My, conductor
Recording: Sendesaal des Hessischen Rundfunks, Frankfurt, 8/2001
Label: Deutsche Grammophon 20-21 471558-2
Wolfgang Rihm, a luminary of contemporary classical music, has long occupied a significant position in the pantheon of German composers. His work, Jagden und Formen, embodies the complexities of his artistic vision, merging intricate textures with an exploratory spirit. This composition, a synthesis of multiple earlier pieces, showcases Rihm’s continual quest for form through the metaphorical lens of a hunt. It was premiered in November 2001, making this recording particularly noteworthy as it captures an evolving work that reflects Rihm’s dynamic compositional process, characterized by a willingness to revisit and reshape his creations.
The performance by Ensemble Modern under the baton of Dominique My is nothing short of remarkable. The ensemble’s interpretive choices illuminate the episodic nature of Jagden und Formen, where contrasting musical ideas vie for attention. My achieves a fine balance between the rapid, agitated passages and the more languorous, contemplative sections, reminiscent of Elliott Carter’s techniques in juxtaposing thematic material. The winds and percussion dominate the texture, and the ensemble deftly navigates the intricate interplay between instruments, providing both clarity and depth to the sonic landscape. The initial out-of-phase violins create a disorienting yet captivating atmosphere that draws the listener into Rihm’s complex world.
In terms of technical execution, the Ensemble Modern’s playing is virtuosic and passionate. Special mention must be made of the bass tuba solo performed by Jozsef Juhasz, whose stratospheric lines not only challenge the bounds of the instrument but also contribute significantly to the work’s dramatic arc. The engineering captures the subtleties of the performance; every nuance is rendered with precision, allowing the listener to appreciate the intricate layering of Rihm’s orchestration. The clarity of the recording enhances the experience, ensuring that the varying timbres, from the resonant contrabassoon to the ethereal high notes of the flutes, emerge distinctly within the mix.
Comparatively, Rihm’s Jagden und Formen stands as a robust testament to the intellectual vigor present in contemporary music, often aligning itself with the works of his predecessors in the Boulez lineage, yet establishing its own identity through its expressive breadth. While previous interpretations may have leaned toward a more cerebral execution, the Ensemble Modern’s performance embodies a visceral energy that makes the music not only accessible but profoundly engaging.
This recording of Jagden und Formen is an essential addition to the discography of contemporary classical music. It demonstrates Rihm’s mastery in crafting a compelling narrative through sound, explored with exceptional skill by the Ensemble Modern. The interplay of innovation and tradition, coupled with the exemplary quality of the performance and recording, results in a compelling listening experience that resonates deeply. For those eager to explore the rich tapestry of modern composition, this release is indispensable.
