Klaus Mäkelä is conducting Alexander von Zemlinsky's orchestral fantasy Die Seejungfrau, based on the fairy tale of The Little Mermaid.
Alexander von Zemlinsky (1871–1942) was one of the central figures in the music scene of his hometown Vienna in the early 20th century, notably as Arnold Schönberg's teacher and brother-in-law. In 1901, he had a relationship with Alma Schindler, who later became Gustav Mahler's wife. He processed his love sorrow through his work on the orchestral fantasy Die Seejungfrau, based on H.C. Andersen's fairy tale The Little Mermaid. Zemlinsky withdrew Die Seejungfrau after its premiere in 1905, and it was long believed to be lost. However, the score was rediscovered in the 1980s and has become one of the composer's most performed works.
"Die Seejungfrau" (The Mermaid) is an orchestral fantasy composed by Alexander von Zemlinsky. It is based on the fairy tale "The Little Mermaid" by Hans Christian Andersen. Zemlinsky composed the piece in the early 20th century, around 1902-1903, during a period when he was romantically involved with Alma Schindler, who later married Gustav Mahler. The work reflects Zemlinsky's personal emotions and struggles, as well as his fascination with the sea and the story's themes of love, longing, and sacrifice. Initially premiered in 1905, the piece was later withdrawn by Zemlinsky and thought to be lost for many years until its rediscovery in the 1980s. Today, it is considered one of Zemlinsky's most significant compositions and is appreciated for its lush orchestration and emotional depth.
And on the 22th of May we have the joy to hear this wonderful work performed by Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra with chief conductor Klaus Mäkelä.
