Contemporary Swiss Music – Arthur Honegger (MH 3/1974)

A portrait of the 20th century Swiss composer Arthur Honegger, who died in Paris in 1955.
In addition to being one of the leading figures of contemporary music in Europe, Honegger stimulated and enriched the musical culture of his homeland. His influence brought about a reawakening of Switzerland as a musical nation.
Musical content
1. Arthur Honegger: The composer speaks about his family origins.
2. Arthur Honegger: Allegro (3rd movement). From Symphony no. 4 (“Deliciae Basiliensis”)
Symphony Orchestra of the German-Swiss Radio; Siegfried Bernet, conductor
3. Arthur Honegger: Pâques à New York
Arlette Chédel, Mezzosoprano; Quatuor de Genève (Régis Plantevin, violin; Mireille Mercanton, violin; André Vaquet, viola; François Courvoisier, cello)
4. Arthur Honegger: La Danse des Morts (excerpt). Oratorio for Soprano, Alto and Baritone, narrator, mixed choir, orchestra and organ
Text: Paul Claudel; Chorus of the French Swiss Radio and Pro Arte Choir of Lausanne; Narrator: Derrik Olsen; Orchestre de la Suisse Romande; Paul Sacher, conductor
Production information
Musica Helvetica MH 3. Contemporary Swiss Music. Arthur Honegger. Produced 1974 for SBC / SRI by Lance Tschannen and Nicolas Lombard.
Background information
Switzerland is a small alpine nation shaped and influenced by great cultural cross-currents that have swept through Europe over centuries. Out of elements of diversity, the people of this country have forged a distinctly Swiss identity. And music is one of its most eloquent expressions. “Musica Helvetica” explores different facets of music in Switzerland from its earliest beginnings to the latest works of modern Swiss composers, from folk music to rock and jazz. This historical series span the years 1973 to 1998. These recordings are not available.

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