Graun, C.H.: Kommt Her Und Schaut

Immerse yourself in the profound and captivating world of Carl Heinrich Graun's "Kommt Her Und Schaut," a monumental work that stands as a testament to the composer's genius and his significant contributions to the Passion cantata genre. Released in 2009, this choral masterpiece comprises 67 tracks, each meticulously crafted to convey the intensity and depth of the Passion narrative.

Graun, renowned for his operatic compositions, demonstrates his versatility and mastery in this sacred work, which is considered one of his most substantial Passions. The album, spanning 1 hour and 35 minutes, showcases an astonishing variety of forms, instrumentations, and formal types, reflecting the composer's maturity and innovative spirit at the age of around twenty-five.

"Kommt Her Und Schaut" features a rich tapestry of vocal and instrumental textures, with soloists and chorus interweaving in a dramatic retelling of the Passion story. The work is scored for a large ensemble, including solo voices (soprano, alto, tenor, bass), mixed chorus, and a robust orchestration of winds, strings, and continuo. This grand scale underscores the work's significance and its place in the canon of Northern German Passion music.

The album's title, "Kommt Her Und Schaut," translates to "Come Here and See," inviting the listener to witness the unfolding drama of Christ's Passion. Each movement, from chorales and arias to recitatives and duets, is imbued with a sense of urgency and intimacy, drawing the listener into the narrative.

This recording, released by CPO, brings together a stellar cast of performers, including Veronika Winter, Hilke, and others, under the direction of Hermann Max. The ensemble's commitment to historical performance practices ensures an authentic and vivid rendition of Graun's vision.

"Kommt Her Und Schaut" is not just an album but a journey through the depths of human experience, as told through the lens of one of the most tumultuous and transformative events in Christian history. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of choral music or a newcomer to the genre, this recording offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.