Stabat Mater

Album Description

Franz Ignaz Beck's sublime 'Stabat Mater' is a masterpiece of sacred music, showcasing the composer's profound understanding of the human experience. This captivating album, released on 1 January 1999 by Koch Music, features a stunning performance by La Stagione Frankfurt and the SWR Vokalensemble Stuttgart, conducted by the esteemed Michael Schneider.

Clocking in at 59 minutes, this beautifully crafted album takes the listener on a journey through the depths of human emotion, with Beck's poignant composition expertly conveying the sorrow and devotion of the 'Stabat Mater' text. The album's 13 tracks, including the haunting 'Stabat Mater Dolorosa: Lamentabile' and the soaring 'Inflammatus et accensus: Allegro con brio', demonstrate Beck's mastery of choral and orchestral writing.

Recorded in 1999, this album was also performed live at the Gedächtniskirche in Speyer, Germany, as part of the prestigious Schwetzinger Festspiele. With its rich, nuanced sound and outstanding performances, 'Stabat Mater' is a must-listen for fans of classical music and those seeking a deeply moving musical experience. Under the skilled direction of Michael Schneider, the musicians bring Beck's vision to life, creating a truly unforgettable listening experience.

1 jan 1999

℗ 1999 Südwestrundfunk, Stuttgart, Mit frdl Genehmigung des SWR

About Franz Ignaz Beck

Franz Ignaz Beck, born in Mannheim in 1734, was a prolific German composer, conductor, violinist, and teacher who made France his home for much of his life. As a student of the renowned Johann Stamitz, Beck became a key figure in the second generation of the Mannheim school, known for its innovative orchestral techniques. His 24 symphonies are celebrated for their originality and dramatic flair, showcasing his pioneering use of wind instruments in slow movements and his mastery of thematic development. Beck's compositions are marked by bold harmonic progressions, flexible rhythms, and highly independent part writing, making his works stand out in the Classical period. His contributions to music are immense, rivaling those of his contemporary, Franz Joseph Haydn. Beck's legacy endures through his groundbreaking compositions, which continue to captivate audiences with their unique and striking qualities.