Joseph Haydn: Schopfung

Experience the grandeur of Joseph Haydn's masterful oratorio "Die Schöpfung" (The Creation) under the expert guidance of conductor Helmut Koch. This 1999 release from the Corona Classics Collection offers a captivating journey through Haydn's monumental work, celebrating the creation of the world as described in the Bible. With a runtime of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Haydn's genius, featuring 15 tracks that bring to life the dramatic and lyrical narrative of the oratorio.

Helmut Koch leads the Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin and an ensemble of renowned vocalists, including Regina Werner and Peter Schreier, in a performance that showcases the intricate orchestration and vocal virtuosity of Haydn's score. The album begins with the iconic "Representation of Chaos," a powerful depiction of the primordial void, and culminates in the triumphant "Singt dem Herren alle Stimmen," a glorious hymn of praise to the Creator.

The libretto, based on texts from the Book of Genesis and the poem "Paradise Lost" by John Milton, is masterfully translated into German by Gottfried van Swieten. The album's tracklist is divided into three parts, each representing a day of creation, and includes both recitatives and arias that highlight the individual voices of the angels Raphael, Gabriel, and Uriel, as well as the chorus.

This recording is a testament to Helmut Koch's deep understanding of Haydn's music and his ability to bring out the best in his performers. The Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin delivers a rich, nuanced sound, while the vocalists offer powerful, expressive performances that bring the story of creation to life. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is an excellent introduction to one of Haydn's most beloved works.