Fantasia

Magdalena Hoffmann's "Fantasia" is a captivating journey into the heart of the Baroque period, showcasing the harpist's extraordinary talent and the instrument's remarkable versatility. This album, released on Deutsche Grammophon, features a collection of 'Fantasias' and 'Preludes' originally composed for keyboard or lute by Johann Sebastian Bach, his sons Wilhelm Friedemann and Carl Philipp Emanuel, and their contemporary George Frideric Handel. Hoffmann's interpretations bring a fresh perspective to these timeless works, highlighting the harp's dynamic range and expressive capabilities.

Recorded in the acoustically rich Bibliothekssaal in Polling, "Fantasia" offers a unique listening experience that transports the audience back to the 18th century while celebrating the enduring appeal of Baroque music. The album's 17 tracks, spanning a total of 60 minutes, demonstrate Hoffmann's technical prowess and her deep understanding of the Baroque aesthetic, which balances improvisation and formal rigor.

Hoffmann, the solo harpist for the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, has already made a significant impact with her debut album, "Nightscapes," which earned her the 2022 Opus Klassik Young Talent of the Year award. With "Fantasia," she continues to push the boundaries of her instrument, offering a compelling exploration of the Baroque repertoire that is sure to captivate both classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The album's elegant packaging and high-quality recording make it a valuable addition to any music lover's collection.