Jeanne d'Arc - Szenen aus dem Leben der heiligen Johanna - Walter Braunfels

Album Description

Experience the epic and dramatic world of Walter Braunfels' "Jeanne d'Arc - Szenen aus dem Leben der heiligen Johanna," a monumental opera that brings to life the story of Joan of Arc through a captivating blend of chamber music and operatic grandeur. Composed by Walter Braunfels, this three-act opera is a testament to his mastery of the genre, standing alongside the works of contemporaries like Richard Strauss and Franz Schreker.

The album, released in 2001 by Decca, features a live performance that spans over two hours and twenty-one minutes, immersing the listener in the rich tapestry of Joan of Arc's life. Braunfels, inspired by the process of Hindemith's "Mathis der Maler," crafted a libretto based on the historical trial records of 1431, providing an authentic and profound narrative.

"Jeanne d'Arc - Szenen aus dem Leben der heiligen Johanna" is divided into three parts: "Die Berufung" (The Calling), "Der Triumph" (The Triumph), and "Das Leiden" (The Suffering). Each part is further divided into scenes, offering a detailed and nuanced portrayal of Joan of Arc's journey. The opera's intricate composition and powerful storytelling make it a standout piece in the chamber music genre.

The Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra delivers a stunning performance, bringing Braunfels' score to life with precision and passion. The album includes 52 tracks, each capturing a different moment in Joan of Arc's life, from her divine calling to her ultimate sacrifice. Whether you are a fan of opera, chamber music, or historical dramas, this album offers a rich and engaging listening experience.

1 januari 2001

℗ 2001 Sveriges Radio AB, under exclusive license to Universal Music Classics & Jazz - a division of Universal Music GmbH

About Walter Braunfels

Walter Braunfels, born in Frankfurt in 1882, was a pivotal figure in German music, renowned for his contributions as a composer, pianist, and music educator. Hailing from a musically inclined family, Braunfels' early education was nurtured by his mother, a great-niece of the celebrated composer Louis Spohr. His formal training began with piano studies under James Kwast at the Hoch Conservatory in Frankfurt, followed by composition lessons with Ludwig Thuille in Munich. Braunfels' career flourished between the two world wars, during which he was one of the most frequently performed opera composers of his time. His notable works include the opera "The Birds," based on Aristophanes' comedy, and a rich repertoire of orchestral, chamber, and piano pieces. Despite facing adversity during the Nazi era, when his music was banned and he was labeled a "half-Jew," Braunfels' legacy endures. He also served as the founding director of the Cologne Academy of Music until 1933. His compositions, steeped in the German Classical-Romantic tradition, continue to captivate audiences with their depth and emotional resonance.