Walter Braunfels (1882-1954) was a German composer, pianist, and teacher who made significant contributions to early 20th-century classical music before falling into relative obscurity due in part to the political and cultural disruptions wrought by World War II and its aftermath. Trained at the Hoch Conservatory in Frankfurt and later under James Kwast and Theodor Leschetizky, Braunfels was initially influenced by the Romantic tradition but soon evolved his own distinctive style, blending late-Romantic harmonies with impressionist touches and contrapuntal mastery.

Braunfels' career was marked by early success, including the enthusiastic reception of his opera "Die Vögel" ("The Birds"), which drew critical acclaim for its lush, inventive orchestration and structural finesse. His output was prolific and varied, spanning operas, symphonies, chamber music, piano works, and choral compositions. However, his music was marginalized during the Nazi era because of his partial Jewish ancestry and the regime's disdain for his aesthetic. After the war, Braunfels struggled to regain his pre-war standing, but despite this, he continued to compose and served as an important educator, playing a pivotal role in the rebuilding of the Cologne Conservatory. While his music was largely forgotten after his death, a resurgence of interest has occurred in recent years, with several of his compositions, such as the "String Quartet Nos. 1 - 3," "Sinfonia concertante, Op. 68," and his piano works, being rediscovered and recorded, helping to secure Braunfels' place in the landscape of 20th-century classical music.

Genres

German Opera

German Romanticism

Post-romantic Era

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Latest Release

Walter Braunfels: Jeanne d'Arc (HD 48/24)

Walter Braunfels•

Manfred Honeck

Album - 45 Tracks - Released September 6, 2024