Il Boemo

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of 18th-century opera with "Il Boemo," a captivating album showcasing the genius of Josef Mysliveček. This collection, released on Warner Classics, offers a rich tapestry of Mysliveček's most celebrated works, providing a comprehensive introduction to the composer's prolific and influential career. The album features a diverse range of arias and overtures from his operas, including "Ezio," "Demetrio," "L'Olimpiade," and "Il Bellerofonte," each piece a testament to his mastery of the Baroque and Classical styles.

Spanning over an hour and forty minutes, "Il Boemo" is a journey through Mysliveček's musical evolution, from his early compositions to his later, more refined works. The album opens with the spirited overture from "Ezio," setting the stage for a series of powerful arias that highlight the composer's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. Standout tracks include "Sarete al fin contenti" from "Demetrio," "Con questo ferro" from "L'Olimpiade," and "Pria ch’io perda" from "Il Bellerofonte," each showcasing Mysliveček's unique voice and innovative approach to opera.

"Il Boemo" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it's a celebration of Josef Mysliveček's enduring legacy. The album serves as the soundtrack to the lavish biopic of the same name, which aims to restore the composer's reputation and introduce his work to a new generation of classical music enthusiasts. With its stunning performances and meticulous attention to detail, "Il Boemo" is a fitting tribute to one of the most prolific and influential composers of the 18th century. Whether you're a seasoned classical music fan or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

23 jun 2023

A Warner Classics/Erato release, ℗ 2022 Mimesis film s.r.o. under exclusive licence to Parlophone Records Limited

About Josef Mysliveček

Josef Mysliveček, born in Prague in 1737, was a pioneering Czech composer who left an indelible mark on the classical music scene of the late 18th century. Known affectionately as "Il Divino Boemo" (The Divine Bohemian), Mysliveček's operatic works, including "Triumf Klélie," "Bellerofontés," and "Antigona," captivated audiences across Italy, where he spent much of his career. His musical prowess and innovative style made him a leading figure in the transition from the Baroque to the Classical era. Mysliveček's friendship with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart added another layer of intrigue to his legacy, as the two composers influenced each other's work. Despite his initial success and the acclaim he received, Mysliveček's later years were marked by financial struggles and health issues, culminating in his untimely death in Rome in 1781. His compositions, though less frequently performed today, continue to resonate with their timeless beauty and technical brilliance, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of 18th-century music.