Schoenberg
"Pierrot Lunaire" (Vinyl)

Schoenberg has come to represent an entire generation of early 20th-century musical thought; in the wake of symphonic behemoths like Mahler and Bruckner Schoenberg (along with Berg and Webern) offered a completely contrary attitude towards art music.
Among Schoenberg's works perhaps none is more indicative of this "new direction" than 'Pierrot Lunaire', a song cycle (of sorts) which features a mixed instrumental ensemble and vocal recitation all about the clown Pierrot and his companion, the moon.

Its not a piece of music for everyone. I'm pretty sure my dad would be running for the hills.
This particular recording is useful, however. Recorded in 1942, Schoenberg himself is conducting the ensemble.