Ritratti a colori

Immerse yourself in the rich, baroque sounds of Christoph Graupner with "Ritratti a colori," a captivating collection of wind concertos that showcase the composer's mastery and the exquisite playing of Antichi Strumenti. Released in 2001 on the Stradivarius label, this album is a testament to Graupner's enduring legacy and the timeless appeal of his music.

Spanning just over 54 minutes, "Ritratti a colori" features a variety of concertos for different wind instruments, each demonstrating Graupner's unique voice and compositional prowess. The album opens with the lively "Concerto for 2 Horns in G Major," followed by the delicate "Bassoon Concerto in B-Flat Major, GWV 340." The "Trumpet Concerto in D Major" and "Flute Concerto in D Major" further highlight the diversity and virtuosity of the works presented.

Performed by the talented ensemble Antichi Strumenti, with notable contributions from Markus Hünninger, Tobias Bonz, Laura Toffetti, and Gerd-Uwe Klein, this recording brings to life the intricate details and expressive nuances of Graupner's compositions. The use of period instruments adds an authenticity that transports the listener back to the Baroque era, making this album a delightful journey through the musical landscape of the 18th century.

Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, "Ritratti a colori" offers a compelling introduction to the works of Christoph Graupner. The album's diverse repertoire and exceptional performances make it a valuable addition to any classical music collection.

Christoph Graupner, born in 1683, was a prolific German composer and harpsichordist of the late Baroque era, standing shoulder to shoulder with contemporaries like Johann Sebastian Bach and Georg Philipp Telemann. Graupner's musical journey is marked by his impressive tenure as Kapellmeister at the court of Darmstadt, a position he held from 1711 until his death in 1760. His extensive body of work includes a staggering 1,442 cantatas, many of which are yet to be fully explored and appreciated. Despite his prolific output, Graupner remains one of the more overlooked figures of the Baroque period. His compositions, ranging from overture-suites to concertos and cantatas, showcase his mastery of the Baroque style and his ability to create deeply engaging and emotionally resonant music. Graupner's near-miss appointment as the cantor of St. Thomas' Church in Leipzig, a position that ultimately went to Bach, adds a layer of intrigue to his story, hinting at the competitive and dynamic musical landscape of the time.