Rued Langgaard was a Danish composer and organist, often regarded as an eccentric and visionary figure in the early 20th-century music landscape. Born on July 28, 1893, in Copenhagen, Denmark, to a highly musical family, his talents emerged early with his first compositions dating back to when he was just a child. Despite early recognition, including a premiere of his first symphony at the age of 17, Langgaard's later works were largely misunderstood or ignored by the Danish musical establishment during his lifetime.

Langgaard's music is characterized by its emotional intensity, grandeur, and sometimes mystic and apocalyptic themes. He composed in a variety of forms and styles, including symphonies, string quartets, songs, piano works, and church music, totaling over 400 pieces. His oeuvre reflects an evolution from late Romanticism to more complex, expressionistic modes, yet always with a highly personal touch that defies categorization. Though underrated during his career, which he spent mostly in provincial positions as an organist, Langgaard's music gained substantial recognition posthumously. Contemporary audiences and scholars have come to appreciate his unique contribution to classical music, and his work has been increasingly performed and recorded. Recent releases, such as "Rued Langgaard: Selected Songs, Vol. 1" and "Langgaard: Works for String Quartet," showcase the breadth and depth of his compositions, from the hauntingly beautiful to the avant-garde. Langgaard passed away on July 10, 1952, but left behind a rich legacy that continues to captivate and challenge listeners.

Genres

Danish Classical

Early Modern Classical

Latest Release

Rued Langgaard: Selected Songs, Vol. 1

Rued Langgaard

Album - 19 Tracks - Released December 18, 2023