Album insights
In her debut solo recital album, Elīna Garanča collaborates with Malcolm Martineau on piano, presenting works by Schumann and Brahms. For Garanča, songs represent the most intimate musical expression. She believes they immerse us in personal emotions, devoid of direct contact with others. The album's centerpiece is Schumann's 1840 song cycle "Frauenliebe und Leben," capturing different stages in a woman's life. Alongside this cycle, Garanča delves into various Brahms songs such as "Liebestreu," "Geheimnis," "Heimweh II," and "Von ewiger Liebe," showcasing a range of emotional states. Garanča consciously juxtaposed diverse feelings in her song selection. Malcolm Martineau, the Scottish pianist, is esteemed by Garanča for his sensitivity and skill, serving as a harmonious companion in exploring emotional landscapes. The duo has frequently performed the album's repertoire in concerts, with the recording taking place in July 2020 in Berlin.