Franz Schubert - Irrlichter (Sophie Rennert; Joseph Middleton)

Information

Composer: Franz Schubert

1. Der Zwerg, D. 771
2. Des Fischers Liebesglück, D. 933
3. Willkommen und Abschied, D. 767
4. Im Freien, D. 880
5. Kolmas Klage, D. 217
6. Gretchen am Spinnrade, D. 118
7. Schwestergruss, D. 762
8. Die Taubenpost, D. 965a
9. Der Winterabend, D. 938
10. Im Abendrot, D. 799
11. Erlkönig, D. 328
12. Nachtstück, D. 672
13. An den Mond in einer Herbstnacht, D. 614

Sophie Rennert, mezzo-soprano

Joseph Middleton, piano

Date: 2026

Label: BIS

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Austrian mezzo-soprano Sophie Rennert, with pianist Joseph Middleton, presents a Schubert lieder recital that combines well-known works with lesser-performed songs, highlighting the emotional and atmospheric range of the composer’s vocal writing. Rennert, noted for a versatile repertoire spanning Baroque to contemporary music and praised for her tonal colour and dramatic intelligence, turns here to Schubert’s highly expressive song world. The album title Irrlichter (will-o’-the-wisp), drawn from her favourite song Des Fischers Liebesglück, reflects themes of longing, memory, and uncertainty that permeate the programme. Together, the selections evoke a twilight landscape of shifting dreams and unfulfilled desire across Schubert’s lieder.

Austrian mezzo-soprano Sophie Rennert is an internationally recognized artist and prizewinner of major competitions, including the International Cesti Competition for Baroque Singing and the International Mozart Competition Salzburg. She trained in Vienna, graduating with distinction under Karlheinz Hanser and Charles Spencer, and further refined her artistry in masterclasses with leading vocal pedagogues. Her career spans opera, concert, and recital repertoire from Baroque to contemporary music, with appearances at major houses and festivals such as Salzburg, Bayreuth, and the Schubertiade. Rennert has collaborated with prominent conductors and ensembles across Europe and maintains an active discography, reflecting both her stylistic versatility and interpretative depth.

Joseph Middleton (b. 1981) is a leading British pianist specializing in song accompaniment and chamber music, widely regarded as one of the foremost interpreters in the field. Praised by major critics as a successor to Gerald Moore and a leading figure of his generation, he is known for his exceptional artistry and imaginative programming. Middleton maintains an international career performing at major concert halls and festivals while also serving as a festival director, educator, and curator, notably at Leeds Song and Pembroke College, Cambridge. He collaborates with many of the world’s leading singers and has an acclaimed discography recognized with major international awards and nominations.

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