ARNOLD SCHÖNBERG

The founder of the Second Viennese School and the pioneer of dodecaphony, Arnold Schönberg is considered to be one of the most important composers of the early 20^th century. His work was shaped by late German Romanticism, and his music is characterised by emotional expressiveness and rational constructiveness.

The works of his first period (1897-1907) are tonal, influenced by Wagner, Mahler and Strauss, exhibiting a polyphonic texture, colourful instrumentation, and an intensity of expressionistic moods. The String sextet Verklärte Nacht (Transfigured Night, 1899) is the most significant work of this period. In 1917, the composer produced a version for string orchestra. This programmatic work was inspired by a text by the Expressionism oriented German poet Richard Dehmel. The text is part of his poetic collection Weib und Welt (Woman and World), telling the story of two people who, while walking in the night, are dealing with their personal problems and relationships. Their intimate and frank conversation, their deep revelation changes and strengthens their relationship and transfigures their souls.

Schönberg’s work (Eduard Steuermann’s arrangement for piano trio) is delivered by the Grand Trio Vilnius: Dalia Kuznecovaitė (violin), David Geringas (cello), Petras Geniušas (piano).