Graupner: Bass Kantaten

Christoph Graupner's 'Bass-Kantaten' is a hidden gem waiting to be unearthed. As a composer who spent over 50 years at the Hessian court in Darmstadt, Graupner's rich musical production has long been overlooked, with many of his original scores remaining inaccessible for decades. This album, released on 3 September 2013 by Pan Classics, brings to light the first recordings of three of his vibrant bass solo cantatas, as well as a suite in B-Flat Major.

Featuring the accomplished bass-baritone Klaus Mertens and the skilled Accademia Daniel, this 23-track album is a testament to Graupner's mastery of the baroque genre. With a duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, the album takes the listener on a journey through Graupner's intricate and colourful compositions, showcasing his unique style and flair.

As a contemporary of J.S. Bach, Handel, and Telemann, Graupner's music is a fascinating insight into the musical landscape of the 18th century. With Klaus Mertens' powerful vocals and the Accademia Daniel's expert accompaniment, this album is a must-listen for fans of baroque music and those looking to discover a new and exciting composer. Christoph Graupner's 'Bass-Kantaten' is a treasure trove of musical delights, and this album is the perfect introduction to his remarkable work.

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.