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Jan Dismas Zelenka
Jan Dismas Zelenka, born in the small Bohemian town of Louňovice pod Blaníkem in 1679, is a Baroque composer whose music has only recently begun to receive the widespread acclaim it deserves. Often hailed as the "Czech Bach," Zelenka's compositions are celebrated for their harmonic inventiveness and masterful counterpoint. Raised by an organist father, Zelenka's musical education began at the Prague Jesuit College and continued in Vienna. His professional life was spent in Dresden, where he served as a principal double-bass player and composer for the Saxon court. Zelenka's output is predominantly sacred, reflecting his deep religious fervor, and includes masses, requiems, oratorios, and various liturgical works. His music, characterized by its adventurous harmonies and intricate polyphony, has seen a remarkable resurgence in the last few decades, captivating audiences and musicians alike. Today, festivals dedicated to his work, such as the Podblanický hudební podzim and the international Zelenka Festival Prague, celebrate his enduring legacy.
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Immerse yourself in the rich, baroque world of Jan Dismas Zelenka with "The Orchestral Works," a comprehensive collection of the Czech composer's instrumental compositions. Released in 2002 by Archiv Produktion, this five-disc set is a treasure trove of Zelenka's orchestral masterpieces, performed on period instruments to capture the authentic sound of the era.
Spanning over three and a half hours, the album features a diverse range of works, including five Capriccios, two concertos, two sinfonias, an ouverture, and three sonatas. Each piece showcases Zelenka's distinctive style, blending the influences of his contemporaries like Vivaldi and Telemann with his unique Czech heritage. The Capriccios, in particular, are a highlight, offering a delightful mix of dance movements and character pieces that display Zelenka's inventiveness and wit.
The album opens with the lively "Capriccio in D Major, ZWV 182," setting the tone for the rest of the collection. Throughout, you'll encounter a variety of moods and tempos, from the energetic "Allegro assai" of the "Capriccio in A Major" to the serene "Largo cantabile" of the "Concerto a 8 concertanti in G Major." The performances are led by some of the most renowned early music ensembles, including the Dutch Baroque, bringing Zelenka's music to life with vibrant and expressive playing.
This collection is not just a testament to Zelenka's genius but also a valuable resource for anyone interested in the baroque period. It's a rare opportunity to explore the complete orchestral works of a composer who, despite his significance, remains relatively unknown. Whether you're a seasoned baroque enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "The Orchestral Works" offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.