This recording is a simple but intriguing and intelligent if unfamiliar concept that works brilliantly. The two artists have put together a song cycle of their own, linking songs around a theme: the changing of the seasons. Fascinatingly, they blend extremely well, creating a recital of exceptional quality and exquisite beauty.

Christiane Karg’s singing and interpretations are magnificent. She excels in every piece, demonstrating not only her considerable vocal agility but also her exceptional dramatic skills. She is ably and effectively accompanied by Burkhard Kehring. There is an obvious musical rapport between them, a clear dialogue between the piano and the voice, where the voice is centre-stage but without displacing the pianist.

I have a few favourites here. I loved her rendition of Clara Schumann’s Er ist gekommen; poetic and powerful, simultaneously evocative of a winter storm, particularly the way in which she enunciates the first verse of each strophe, which is repeated throughout: Er is gekommen in Sturm und Regen. Then, there are Schubert’s two songs. The music is typically beautiful but Karg’s expressive enunciation, clear, perfect diction and lyrical tone just penetrate the heart, making one want to listen to these tracks over and over again. She is also excellent in Brahms’s Sommerabend, Strauss’s Weisser Jasmin and Ligeti’s Der Sommer.

The intelligence and attractiveness of this recital transcends the music and the singing. The CD’s sleeve and enclosed photographs are tasteful and stylish, revealing great care in selection. These aspects perfectly match Karg’s remarkable voice and attractive, charming presence but also complement the lyricism of the texts and the subtle beauty of most of the music.

I loved this CD! It is indeed a “work for all seasons” and an inspiring companion to have by one’s side at any time or situation. I am a fervent admirer of Ms Karg’s artistry.

This very young artist sings with an amazing clarity and a pure, crystal clear tone. Her high notes are powerful yet delicate and never, ever strident or screaming. Ms Karg’s transitions are impeccable; her pianissimo superb and her phrasing elegant, graceful and refined. As if such attributes were not enough, she has a luminous coloratura and is also dramatically very expressive; a quality of great importance in opera but even more so in the song repertoire. She demonstrates remarkable maturity in her repertoire choices, impeccable technique combined with exceptionally clear diction, perfect enunciation, natural charisma and enviable dramatic skills. © 2013 MusicWeb International Read complete review