Graupner: Bass Cantatas

Album Description

Christoph Graupner's 'Bass Cantatas' is a captivating album that showcases the composer's mastery of the cantata genre. Released on 3 June 2014 by CPO, this collection of solo cantatas features the renowned bass-baritone Klaus Mertens, accompanied by Accademia Daniel under the direction of Shalev Ad-El. With a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of Graupner's musical genius, highlighting his ability to craft intricate and expressive works for the bass voice.

Graupner, a prolific composer of over 1,400 cantatas, demonstrates his skill in weaving together complex melodies and harmonies, creating a rich tapestry of sound. The album includes first recordings of three of his colourful bass solo cantatas, offering a unique glimpse into the composer's artistic vision. From the opening notes of 'Frohlocke gantzes Rund der Erden' to the final chords of 'Zahle meine Flucht', Graupner's music is a testament to his innovative spirit and dedication to his craft.

With Klaus Mertens' powerful and expressive vocals, this album is a must-listen for fans of Baroque music and cantatas. The accompaniment by Accademia Daniel adds depth and nuance to the performances, bringing Graupner's compositions to life in a way that is both authentic and engaging. Whether you are a seasoned music lover or just discovering the wonders of Christoph Graupner's music, 'Bass Cantatas' is an album that is sure to delight and inspire.

3 jun 2014

2014 CPO

About Christoph Graupner

Christoph Graupner, born in 1683, was a prolific German composer and harpsichordist of the late Baroque era, standing shoulder to shoulder with contemporaries like Johann Sebastian Bach and Georg Philipp Telemann. Graupner's musical journey is marked by his impressive tenure as Kapellmeister at the court of Darmstadt, a position he held from 1711 until his death in 1760. His extensive body of work includes a staggering 1,442 cantatas, many of which are yet to be fully explored and appreciated. Despite his prolific output, Graupner remains one of the more overlooked figures of the Baroque period. His compositions, ranging from overture-suites to concertos and cantatas, showcase his mastery of the Baroque style and his ability to create deeply engaging and emotionally resonant music. Graupner's near-miss appointment as the cantor of St. Thomas' Church in Leipzig, a position that ultimately went to Bach, adds a layer of intrigue to his story, hinting at the competitive and dynamic musical landscape of the time.