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Schubert's Winterreise

Amy | 08/04/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Schubert's song cycle Die Winterreise (The Winter's Journey) is another wonderful piece in the solo vocal literature. Tenor Thomas Quasthoff and pianist Daniel Barenboim present Die Winterreise beautifully on this DVD. Written in 1827 by Franz Schubert, who set to music the cycle of 24 poems by Wilhelm Muller, the series is of a sad portrayal of alienation and loneliness. The songs trace the physical and emotional journey of a rejected lover traveling away from his beloved's hometown, out into the snow covered fields, and past frozen rivers. As time passes, he travels far and his mental state weakens as severe depression surrounds him. He grows increasingly despondent. Occasional flashes of hope appear, but are very quickly dashed leaving even greater loneliness for him, leading to the song cycle's chilling conclusion. To me the story is not just about lost love. The young woman who turns her back on the wanderer is more than the object of his love. She represents everything he wants in life. A family, friends, warmth and understanding, and her rejection serves as final realization that human happiness is only a dream from which he has awoken. Sadly, Schubert's music reflected his own personal life. He too, never found love or true happiness and you can hear it in his music. Like Mozart, he died too young at the age of 31 from complications of syphillis. This DVD also has a 30 minute bonus feature of Barenboim and Quasthoff rehearsing for the performance that was very informative and interesting to watch.
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Winterreise with Quasthoff and barenboim

C. Metzner | Venezuela | 09/01/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Absolutely breathtaking and otherworldy interpretation. The best I have ever heard!! And the bonus on the dvd shows what a great partnership they have. Very interesting!! All the Kudos for this production."

1979 DFD/brendel vs. 2005 quasthoff/barenboim.

oldatlguy | atlanta,ga | 08/02/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"i had never heard winterreise until i rented the DFD/brendel version recorded in 1979.this is a fine performance that looks like it was copied to dvd from a "bargain" vhs tape.it inspired me to buy the quasthoff/barenboim version recorded in 2005.this is a jaw-dropping performance worthy of repeated viewing and study.also great picture and sound up to top present-day standards.both dvds have optional english/german/etc subtitles. note: since this isnt "twilight" or "transformers",you might want to buy from a vendor who has a copy in-stock."

Quasthoff and Barenboim are electric

Paul Lofing | 10/14/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Quasthoff and Barenboim gave a terrific performance of Schubert's Winterreise. They explored both the full affect and emotional impact of the work. Bravo!"