Wenn dein Mütterlein

Composed 1901-1904. 'Each individual song demonstrates the highest degree of virtuosity, giving the listener the impression of smooth simplicity; that is surely enough a seal of approval. When a piece is somewhat complicated, it can either be good or bad; one is fully occupied with its deciphering. In this case, the deciphering is not a difficult task for the ear. However, to discern exactly what has been composed, one must really know the 'Kindertotenlieder' (Songs of the deaths of children) very well'. (Michael Gielen). Recommended by BBC Music Magazine and MusicWeb.