A Night at the Opera

Album Description

Experience the enchanting world of opera reimagined through the virtuoso clarinet of Sabine Meyer in "A Night at the Opera." Released in 1996 under the EMI Classics label, this captivating album showcases Meyer's exceptional skill and artistry, accompanied by the Orchester der Oper Zürich under the baton of Franz Welser-Möst.

Spanning a diverse range of compositions, "A Night at the Opera" features renowned works by Mozart, Rossini, Weber, Verdi, and Danzi. The album opens with a delightful fantasy on themes from Verdi's "Rigoletto," orchestrated by Herrlinger, setting the stage for a night of operatic splendor. Meyer's rendition of Mozart's "Dies Bildnis ist bezaubernd schön" from "Die Zauberflöte" is a standout, beautifully adapted for clarinet and orchestra.

Weber's "Der Freischütz" and his variations on a theme from "Silvana" are presented with exquisite precision, highlighting Meyer's technical prowess. Rossini's "Una voce poco fà" from "Il barbiere di Siviglia" and his Introduction, Theme, and Variations for Clarinet and Orchestra are performed with a charm and elegance that bring the opera house to life.

With a duration of 59 minutes, this album is a testament to Sabine Meyer's ability to breathe new life into classic opera arias through the clarinet. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "A Night at the Opera" offers a unique and captivating listening experience. The album's rich orchestration and Meyer's masterful clarinet playing make it a standout addition to any music collection.

20 september 1996

℗ 1996 The copyright in this sound recording is owned by EMI Music Germany GmbH & Co. KG

About Sabine Meyer

Sabine Meyer is a renowned German classical clarinetist celebrated for her virtuosity and significant contributions to the clarinet repertoire. Born in Crailsheim, Meyer's musical journey began under the influence of her gifted musician father, leading her to study with esteemed clarinetists Otto Hermann and Hans Deinzer. Her career spans solo performances with over three hundred orchestras worldwide, including the Vienna Philharmonic and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and collaborations with leading conductors and composers.

Meyer's artistry has redefined the clarinet's role in classical music, earning her a place among the world's most acclaimed instrumental soloists. She is also a dedicated chamber musician and professor at the Hochschule für Musik in Lübeck, where she continues to inspire new generations of musicians. Her discography is extensive, featuring a diverse range of clarinet instruments, including a bespoke basset clarinet. Meyer's performances are marked by their soft, cantabile qualities and sparkling virtuosity, making her a true ambassador for the clarinet. After an illustrious career, Meyer announced her retirement in 2025, leaving behind a legacy that has forever changed the landscape of classical clarinet playing.