The six German men who call themselves Die Singphoniker are virtuosos who specialize in very difficult pieces, from Gregorian chant to the Avantgarde, in this case bringing us some rarely-heard works of Romantic European music, partsongs by Richard Strauss and Max Reger. New interpreters of vocal chamber music of the 19th century, the group's success is measured in many awards and rave reviews: its last five CDs have received prizes. Included are 20 pieces, favorites are "Frohlich im Maien," "Hut du dich!," "Liebe op. 42,1," and Der Brauttanz op. 45,3" by Strauss; and "Liebchens Bote," Frohsinn op. 38,5," "Hochsommernacht op. 83,5" and "Minnelied op. 83,7" by Reger. Difficult, eclectic choral music, effortlessly and beautifully performed. |