Carl Nielsen’s incidental music for The Mother was written for a gala celebrating the reunification, in 1920, of Southern Jutland with Denmark – one of the most important events in Denmark in the 20th century. The Royal Theatre commissioned the distinguished poet Helge Rode (1870-1937) to write the text for the play, and Carl Nielsen, who had established himself as Denmark’s leading composer, was to write the music.
This year the 100th anniversary of the reunification is celebrated, and this recording provides a new picture of the Danish National composer Carl Nielsen as a composer for the theatre.
The complete score first appeared in print in 2007 and has never been recorded in its entirety. Nielsen uses familiar songs in the play, including the Danish national anthem as well as a curious use of the national anthems from the allied countries that, with their attacks on Germany, determined the fate of Southern Jutland. Several of Nielsen’s most popular compositions, including the idyllic work for flute Tågen letter (The Mist Is Rising), originates from The Mother.
The Mother is recorded by tenor Adam Riis, baritone Palle Knudsen, the Danish National Vocal Ensemble, Philharmonic Choir and Odense Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Andreas Delfs. Release date: 10 July 2020.
This is splendid news for all lovers of a composer who produces wholesome, vibrant and exuberant music in his non symphonic output.
What wonderful news. I thought that I knew all of
Nielsen’s orchestral and choral works, but this piece is
completely new to me. Can’t wait to purchase the CD