BBC Proms: Theatre of Voices and Paul Hillier had already released a magnificent recording of Stimmung a year before this Prom (one which lends ‘even more enchantment to this extraordinary work’, according to The Guardian). But this hypnotic piece for ‘six singers and six microphones’ takes on a unique atmosphere when performed live – as in this 2008 Prom.
Stockhausen: Stimmung (Copenhagen version)
Theatre of Voices
Paul Hillier (director)
Original performance from 2nd August 2008
Among many influences that Stockhausen acknowledged when composing the work was a month spent wondering among Mexico ruins. The Theatre of Voices – as adept in music of the Middle Ages as in new music – have made something of a specialty of Stimmung, and Hillier’s long association with the piece includes his participation as one of the singers at a Prom performance 30 years ago.
Stockhausen: Stimmung (Copenhagen version)
Theatre of Voices
Paul Hillier (director)
Original performance from 2nd August 2008
Among many influences that Stockhausen acknowledged when composing the work was a month spent wondering among Mexico ruins. The Theatre of Voices – as adept in music of the Middle Ages as in new music – have made something of a specialty of Stimmung, and Hillier’s long association with the piece includes his participation as one of the singers at a Prom performance 30 years ago.