Lieux retrouvés At first glance, the selection of works seems unusual, as featuring composers like Fauré and Kurtág together is by no means commonplace. However, this concept is based on a specific motivation: all the composers represented on the CD significantly shaped Thomas Adès' artistic development and inspired his work "Lieux retrouvés," which is recorded here for the first time. Instead of limiting themselves to a narrow repertoire, the decision was made to create a concert program that illuminates the context of "Lieux retrouvés" and its influences. It seemed more appropriate to ask Adès for his own explanations, which he gladly provided.
The three pieces by Liszt are the only works from the period before the 20th century. His arrangements document the shift from song-like qualities to more restrained forms of expression. Each individual work arose from profound personal experiences; Liszt worked on these compositions for years. Janáček's "Pohádka," based on a fairy tale by Vasily Zhukovsky, tells the story of Princess Marya and Prince Ivan. Fauré's late Cello Sonata, despite his hearing impairment, radiates a remarkable vibrancy and joy.
Kurtág's compositions possess great depth and meaning. "In Memoriam Pauline Mara" was written in response to personal loss and reflects universal suffering as well as solace. Kurtág sets the poem "Gérard Nerval" to music with compelling intensity. Adès's "Lieux retrouvés" transcends musical genre boundaries, demonstrating a unique and richly inspired musical language.
Kurtág's profound musicality profoundly influenced Adès; he dedicated his dissertation to Kurtág, whose music revealed to him the existential significance of every single note. “Lieux retrouvés” exemplifies Adès’s distinctive style: it defies categorization and unites a wide range of creative influences. The work is a bold composition that evokes diverse moods and scenes, taking the listener on a multifaceted journey.
“Lieux retrouvés” is a prime example of Adès’s unmistakable style: it defies categorization and unites a diverse array of creative influences.