Georg Nigl and Alexander Gergelyfi release new Schubert recording

Baritone Georg Nigl and Alexander Gergelyfi have released a new recording of Franz Schubert’s song cycle ‘Die schöne Müllerin’ on the Alpha Classics label.

The performance utilizes a restored historical fortepiano dating from approximately 1810, an instrument similar to those Schubert may have played. This choice of instrument, combined with the performers' interpretation, aims to provide a radical and dark perspective on the cycle.

Unlike traditional interpretations that may emphasize Biedermeier comfort, this version focuses on the psychological intensity, despair, and nihilism within the poems. The recording also includes the poem ‘Erster Schmerz, letzter Scherz’ by Wilhelm Müller, which was not originally set to music by Schubert but is included here to provide context for the subsequent songs.