Brahms, Johannes - Lieder - Ruiten, Lenneke (soprano)

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Lenneke Ruiten, soprano
Hans Adolfsen, piano

Although Johannes Brahms (1833-1897) is best known for his symphonies, string quartets and piano music, he was also a prolific writer of lieder, composing over 200 pieces in the medium. This charming collection celebrates his wonderfully rich, lyrical style through detailing 27 such works - ones which span much of his 40-year song career.

The earliest works on the compilation date from his second lieder collection, Op.6, composed when Brahms was just eighteen years old. Also touching on his Op.14 and 16 collections (Brahms gave the first performance of Ein Sonett Op.14 No.4 with Julius Stockhausen), the collection features two songs from Op.48 - of which the Liebesklage des Mädchens 'vibrates with marvellous originality and the deepest heartfelt pain', according to the great Bach biographer Philipp Spitta. From Op.85 to Op.95, we explore the late period of a composer who set verses by such iconic poets as Geibel, Heine and Goethe. Maienkätzchen Op.107 No.4 is the final song to be featured.

Performing these works is the celebrated young Dutch soprano Lenneke Ruiten, who enjoys a busy career as a recitalist, concert soloist and opera singer. She is joined on the recording by talented pianist (and composer) Hans Adolfsen.