Nicolai: Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Otto Nicolai's "Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor" (The Merry Wives of Windsor), a delightful operatic journey that showcases the composer's wit and musical prowess. This 1988 remastered recording, released by Warner Classics, brings to life the comedic tale of Sir John Falstaff's misadventures in Windsor, filled with mischief, love, and laughter.

Spanning three acts and over two hours of captivating music, this album features a stellar cast of performers, including Gottlob Frick, Edith Mathis, Ruth-Margret Pütz, and Gisela Litz, who bring Nicolai's characters to life with their exceptional vocal talents. The opera's overture, conducted by Frick, sets the stage for a whimsical and engaging musical experience.

From the playful duets of Frau Fluth and Frau Reich to the humorous buffo-duet between Herr Fluth and Falstaff, each track offers a unique blend of comedy and drama. The opera's highlights include the romantic ballad "Horch, die Lerche singt im Hain," the enchanting "Arie: Wohl denn! Gefaßt ist der Entschluß" performed by Anna, and the lively "Finale III/Terzettino" that brings the story to a satisfying close.

Nicolai's masterful composition, combined with the rich storytelling and memorable melodies, makes "Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor" a timeless classic. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an entertaining and enjoyable listening experience. Dive into the world of Windsor and let the merry wives and their antics charm you with their musical allure.

17 maart 1988

℗ Digital Remaster (P) 1988 The copyright in this sound recording is owned by EMI MUSIC GERMANY GmbH & Co. KG

About Otto Nicolai

Otto Nicolai, born in Königsberg, Prussia, in 1810, was a prolific German composer and conductor whose legacy continues to resonate in the classical music world. Nicolai is renowned for his operatic adaptation of Shakespeare's "The Merry Wives of Windsor," titled "Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor," which remains his most celebrated work. Beyond his operatic achievements, Nicolai's compositions span a wide range of genres, including lieder, orchestral works, choral pieces, and solo instrumentals. His influence extends to his role as a founder of the Vienna Philharmonic, where he initiated the Philharmonische Konzerte, setting a standard for orchestral performances that endures to this day. Nicolai's life was marked by both triumph and tragedy, having started as a child prodigy and later facing personal struggles that shaped his musical journey. His contributions to music, particularly his operatic and orchestral works, continue to captivate audiences and inspire musicians worldwide.