Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of German Romanticism with Carl Maria von Weber's "Der Freischütz - Highlights." This captivating album, released on January 1, 1998, under the Decca label, presents a selection of the most memorable moments from Weber's iconic opera, "Der Freischütz." With a runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes, this collection offers a concise yet comprehensive exploration of the opera's rich musical tapestry.
"Der Freischütz," composed by the renowned Carl Maria von Weber, is a three-act opera rooted in folk song and Teutonic peasant myth. Its successful premiere in Berlin in 1821 catapulted Weber to fame and established the opera as a cornerstone of German musical Romanticism. The libretto by Friedrich Kind weaves a tale of supernatural themes and folk elements, creating a dramatic and engaging narrative that has captivated audiences for centuries.
This album features highlights from the opera, including the stirring overture and key arias that showcase Weber's mastery of orchestration and his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions. The performances are brought to life by the Orchestra and Chorus of the Staatsoper Hamburg, conducted by Ingo Metzmacher, in a production directed by Peter Konwitschny. The live recording from 1999 captures the energy and passion of the stage performance, offering listeners an authentic and immersive experience.
From the triumphant "Victoria! Victoria! Der Meister soll leben" to the hauntingly beautiful "Leise, Leise, fromme Weise," each track on this album is a testament to Weber's genius and the enduring appeal of "Der Freischütz." Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection provides a perfect introduction to the world of Carl Maria von Weber and the timeless allure of "Der Freischütz."
Der Freischütz, J. 277: OvertureCarl Maria von Weber, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischutz / Act 1: "Victoria! Victoria! Der Meister soll leben"Carl Maria von Weber, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischutz / Act 1: "Schau der Herr mich an als König!"Carl Maria von Weber, Hermann Sapell, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischütz, J. 277 / Act 1: "Nein, länger trag' ich nicht die Quälen...Durch die Wälder, durch die Auen"Carl Maria von Weber, René Kollo, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischütz / Act 1: "Hier im irdischen Jammertal"Carl Maria von Weber, Peter Meven, René Kollo, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischütz / Act 2: Schelm! Halt dich fest! ... So nun wird der UrvaterCarl Maria von Weber, Helen Donath, Hildegard Behrens, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischütz / Act 2: "Kommt ein schlanker Bursch"Carl Maria von Weber, Helen Donath, Hildegard Behrens, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischütz / Act 2: Wie nahte mir der Schlummer ... Leise, Leise, fromme WeiseCarl Maria von Weber, Hildegard Behrens, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischütz / Act 2: "Milch des Mondes fiel aufs Kraut!"Carl Maria von Weber, Peter Meven, Rolf Boysen, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischütz / Act 2: "Und ob die Wolke sie verhülle"Carl Maria von Weber, Hildegard Behrens, Helen Donath, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischütz / Act 2: Dialogue: "Nun muß ich aber geschwind den Jungfern-kranz holen" - "Wir winden dir den JungferndranzCarl Maria von Weber, Hildegard Behrens, Helen Donath, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischütz / Act 3: "Was gleicht wohl auf Erden dem Jägervergnügen?"Carl Maria von Weber, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Der Freischütz / Act 2: So eile, mein Gebiet zu meidenCarl Maria von Weber, Hildegard Behrens, Rolf Boysen, Wolfgang Brendel, Helen Donath, Hermann Sapell, René Kollo, Peter Meven, Kurt Moll, Raimund Grumbach, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Rafael Kubelík
Carl Maria von Weber, born in 1786 in Eutin, was a pioneering figure in the Romantic era, renowned as a composer, conductor, and pianist. His innovative approach to opera and music theory left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. Weber's tenure as an operatic director in cities like Prague and Dresden showcased his reform-oriented vision, aiming to elevate the operatic experience. Among his most celebrated works is the iconic opera "Der Freischütz," which solidified his status as one of the most influential German stage composers of the 19th century. Weber's legacy endures, making him a pivotal figure in the evolution of classical music.
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Carl Maria von Weber
