For Dieter...
Works by Brahms, Schubert, Wolf et al
Benjamin Appl (baritone), James Baillieu (piano)
Alpha Classics ALPHA1131 79 mins
Clip: Eisler - Die Heimkehr (Benjamin Appl)
Many listeners for whom the German Lied is forever associated with Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau will adore this homage. The repertoire traces a ‘life-in-works’ in a wide range of repertoire, including music composed by Fischer-Dieskau’s brother and father, as well as commissions the baritone attracted.
The catholic approach to curation embraces arrangements for piano (eg from Britten’s War Requiem), as well as Fischer-Dieskau’s own translations of French and English repertoire – both insightful inclusions. Like Fischer-Dieskau’s own discography, the result sets fine discoveries (the Bruno Walter song is a treat) alongside less interesting music, and women composers are largely invisible (though the now-obligatory Clara Schumann and Fanny Mendelssohn are included). The soundtrack from the film Vater braucht eine Frau wittily hints at the role of women in this starry life.
Benjamin Appl’s singing is thoughtful and enjoyable. The voice sometimes uncannily recalls that of his guru (and he seems to invite the comparison), though audible differences emerge in exposed songs like Schubert’s ‘Die Götter Griechenlands’. Baillieu provides excellent, if too unobtrusive piano accompaniment, and I longed for a better balance, for instance in the prelude of Tchaikovsky’s ‘Nur wer die Sehnsucht kennt’. Baillieu’s beautiful colours and subtle voicing in Barber’s ‘O boundless, boundless evening’ remind us how important fine pianists were to Fischer-Dieskau’s success.
Appl and his artistic partners deserve huge credit for making this imaginative, moving tribute to an artist whose voice shaped German song during the post-war years. This album will be cherished by Fischer-Dieskau’s many fans. Natasha Loges
