Arnold Schoenberg (1874–1951) was a pivotal figure in the transition from Romanticism to modernism in Western music. An Austrian composer, music theorist, teacher, and painter, Schoenberg came to prominence in the early 20th century, at a time when the language of music was undergoing a profound transformation. Schoenberg pushed the boundaries of musical harmony and structure, sowing the seeds for what would become the Second Viennese School. He is perhaps best known for developing the twelve-tone technique of composition, which treats all twelve notes of the chromatic scale as equals, thereby eliminating the traditional dominance of a single tonal center.

His oeuvre, which can be both emotionally charged and intellectually rigorous, covers a wide range of styles and forms. Early works like "Verklärte Nacht" (Transfigured Night) Op. 4 and "Gurre-Lieder" still retained late-Romantic elements but already hinted at the more dissonant, expressionistic language to come. With landmark compositions such as "Pierrot Lunaire" Op. 21, Schoenberg abandoned traditional tonality altogether, paving the way for his later, strictly dodecaphonic works, such as the Violin Concerto. Schoenberg's legacy is not solely tied to his compositions; as a theorist, he penned significant texts, and as an educator, he taught future luminaries who would carry on and further develop his musical ideas. Schoenberg's work remains a touchstone for understanding the development of modern music, with his concepts and compositions continuing to challenge and inspire musicians and audiences alike.

Genres

Austro-german Modernism

Classical

Early Modern Classical

Post-romantic Era

Serialism

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Arnold Schoenberg

Album - 98 Tracks - Released October 29, 2024