Geistliche Sommermusik

Album Description

"Geistliche Sommermusik" is a captivating choral album composed by Rudolf Mauersberger, released on October 17, 2017, under the Querstand label. This 54-minute masterpiece is a collection of seven tracks, each a distinct movement of Mauersberger's RMWV 11, a largely a cappella work for large choir, chamber choir, and soloists. The album is a vibrant and diverse setting of hymn stanzas and biblical verses, drawing from the evangelical hymnals.

Mauersberger, known for his work as the Kreuzkantor in Dresden, crafted this piece to celebrate the beauty of nature and the responsibility of humans to honor God's creation. This theme is particularly poignant given the album's composition in the aftermath of World War II. The work is conducted by Ekkehard Klemm, who, as a former Kreuzknabe, sang under Mauersberger's direction.

The album opens with "Introitus" and concludes with "Beschluss," encompassing themes of growth, harvest, litany, comfort, and promise. Each track is a testament to Mauersberger's skill in weaving together complex choral textures and harmonies, creating a rich and immersive listening experience. The album features performances by renowned choirs and soloists, including the Dresdner Kreuzchor and the Chorakademie Dortmund, under the direction of Felix Heitmann. Whether you're a fan of choral music or seeking a profound musical experience, "Geistliche Sommermusik" offers a deeply moving journey through the seasons and the human spirit.

17 okt 2017

Querstand

Klaus-Jürgen Kamprad

About Rudolf Mauersberger

Rudolf Mauersberger (1889-1971) was a prominent German choral conductor and composer, renowned for his profound impact on sacred music and his leadership of the esteemed Dresdner Kreuzchor. Born in the picturesque town of Mauersberg in the Erzgebirge region, Mauersberger's musical journey began under the tutelage of his father, a cantor and teacher. His formal education took him to Leipzig, where he studied with notable figures such as Karl Straube and Stephan Krehl.

Mauersberger's compositions, which span both religious and secular genres, are marked by their emotional depth and technical mastery. His most celebrated work, the Dresden Requiem, was composed in memory of the victims of the bombing of Dresden during World War II and stands as a poignant testament to the human spirit's resilience. Other notable works include the motet "Wie liegt die Stadt so wüst" and the Dresden Te Deum.

As the Kreuzkantor of the Dresdner Kreuzchor from 1930 until his death in 1971, Mauersberger's influence extended far beyond his compositions. He was instrumental in preserving and promoting the rich choral traditions of Saxony, earning him a place among the most revered figures in the history of German choral music. His legacy continues to inspire and move audiences worldwide, making him a pivotal figure in the world of classical music.