Sofia Gubaidulina, R.I.P.

We at Classical Candor join the worldwide classical music community in mourning the recent (March 13) death of composer Sofia Gubaidulina. Gubaidulina was born in 1931 in what is now the Republic of Tatarstan (formerly under Russian control) to a Tatar father and a Russian mother. In 1992, she moved to Hamburg, Germany, where she resided for the remainder of her life. She described herself as a deeply spiritual person and has said of her compositional process, “whenever I’m composing, I pray, no, I actually speak to God.’ 

We have reviewed several of her compositions over the years and can attest to their spiritual nature. Of the three releases on which these compositions are contained, there are two that I have no hesitation in recommending to those unfamiliar with her catalog, but for different reasons. For those who prefer drama, intensity, and giving their stereo a serious workout, I would recommend a DG release featuring violinist Vadim Rapin, conductor Andris Nelsons, and the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra that contains three compositions: Dialog: Ich und Du, The Wrath of God;  and The Light of the End (see review here). For those who might prefer music of a quitter, more reflective nature, there is an EMI release featuring legendary Russian cellist titled The Canticle of the Sun (see review here). The third release is unusual in that it includes two unlike compositions, the first a triple concerto for the unusual combination of violin, cello, and bayan; the second a sonata for cello and bayan (see review here). It’s an interesting album, but the other two are better introductions to Gubaidulina’s music. 

 

Her music was intense, powerful, often challenging. Although it was seldom what most listeners would think of as easy listening, for the listener willing to give it a thoughtful hearing, it could become result in rewarding listening. She was a unique musical voice, and she will ne missed.