Graupner: Himmlische Stunden, selige Zeiten

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Baroque music with Christoph Graupner's "Himmlische Stunden, selige Zeiten." This captivating album, released on January 7, 2014, under the Christophorus label, showcases the exquisite talents of soprano Miriam Feuersinger and the Capricornus Consort Basel, conducted by Péter Barczi. The album is a stunning collection of cantatas and instrumental works by the prolific German composer Christoph Graupner, who served as the court kapellmeister in Darmstadt.

Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album features 26 tracks that highlight Graupner's mastery of vocal and instrumental composition. The disc includes a variety of arias, recitatives, and chorales, each performed with remarkable precision and artistry. Notable pieces include the aria "Himmlische Stunden" from the cantata "Angst und Jammer," the aria "Ich bleibe Gott getreu" from the cantata of the same name, and the chorale "Ach Gott und Herr" from the cantata "Ach Gott und Herr."

Graupner's compositions are known for their intricate melodies and profound spiritual depth, and this album is no exception. The performances by Miriam Feuersinger and the Capricornus Consort Basel bring a fresh and vibrant energy to these historic works, making them accessible and enjoyable for both classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The album's production quality is top-notch, ensuring that every nuance of Graupner's music is captured and presented with clarity and warmth.

Whether you are a seasoned fan of Baroque music or simply looking to explore the rich tapestry of classical compositions, "Himmlische Stunden, selige Zeiten" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. This album is a testament to Graupner's enduring legacy and the timeless beauty of his musical creations.

7 januari 2014

2014 Christophorus

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.