Otto Nicolai: Herr, auf dich traue ich. Psalmen

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and powerful compositions of Otto Nicolai with the album "Herr, auf dich traue ich. Psalmen." This captivating collection, released on April 1, 2012, under the Carus label, features the stellar performances of the Kammerchor Stuttgart, conducted by the renowned Frieder Bernius. Spanning 17 tracks and a total duration of 49 minutes, this album is a testament to Nicolai's mastery of choral music, particularly his settings of psalms.

The album opens with a series of liturgical pieces, including "Liturgie Nr. 1: Herr, sei uns gnädig / Kyrie eleison" and "Liturgie Nr. 1: Ehre sei Gott - Und Friede," showcasing Nicolai's ability to blend traditional liturgical elements with his unique musical style. The centerpiece of the album is the title track, "Herr, auf dich traue ich (Psalm 31)," a profound and moving interpretation of the famous psalm. Other highlights include "Jauchzet dem Herrn, alle Welt (Psalm 100)" and "Wie lieblich sind deine Wohnungen (Psalm 84)," both of which demonstrate Nicolai's skill in setting text to music in a way that enhances the emotional and spiritual impact of the words.

Nicolai's compositions are notable for their rich harmonies, intricate counterpoint, and dynamic contrast. The Kammerchor Stuttgart delivers a performance of exceptional precision and expressiveness, bringing out the full depth and beauty of Nicolai's music. Whether you are a fan of choral music, a lover of classical compositions, or simply someone seeking a deeply moving musical experience, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

1 april 2012

℗ 2012 Carus

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.