Schat: De Hemel - The Heavens

Chailly, Riccardo, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra

97006

“De Hemel” (The Heavens) is a large-scale symphonic work by Peter Schat (1935-2003), one of the foremost and innovative Dutch composers of the 20th century.

Written in 1982, the work is part of Schat’s exploration of his “Tone Clock” theory, a system he developed to organize pitch material in a manner akin to the chromatic clock. This method allowed him to blend serialism with more intuitive harmonic relationships, creating music that is both rigorously structured and emotionally evocative.

“De Hemel” reflects Schat’s interest in the metaphysical and philosophical dimensions of art. The composition evokes a celestial atmosphere, employing shimmering orchestration and fluid harmonic progressions that suggest a sense of transcendence. Its textures are meticulously crafted, with delicate interplay between strings, woodwinds, and percussion creating an otherworldly sonic landscape.

The piece is also notable for its dramatic contrasts, as moments of serene beauty are juxtaposed with passages of intense energy.

Excellent performance by the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra conducted by Riccardo Chailly.

Reissue from the NM Classics catalogue, the label for music from The Netherlands.

CD x 1

Brilliant Classics

5/12/25

5028421970066