Dostal: Monika

Album Description

Nico Dostal's "Dostal: Monika" is a captivating collection of operetta highlights, originally composed in 1937, and beautifully reimagined in this 2014 recording. This album offers a delightful journey through the enchanting world of German operetta, featuring a selection of eight tracks that showcase the timeless charm and musical prowess of Nico Dostal.

The album opens with the lively "Wir feiern heute Hochzeitsfest," setting the stage for a celebration of love and joy. Each track is a gem, from the playful "Einmal rechts rum, einmal links rum" to the romantic "Ein Walzer zu zweien," and the heartfelt "Ich bin immer dein." The album also includes the stirring "Heimatland, Heimatland" and concludes with a grand Finale, leaving the audience with a sense of satisfaction and nostalgia.

Conducted by the talented Nico Dostal himself, this recording features a stellar cast of performers, including the renowned soprano Monika Dahlberg, tenor Ferry Gruber, and the legendary Rudolf Schock. The album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Dostal's music, offering a blend of wit, romance, and nostalgia that will captivate listeners from start to finish.

Released under The Art of Singing label, "Dostal: Monika" is a delightful addition to any operetta enthusiast's collection. With a duration of just 25 minutes, it's the perfect way to enjoy a quick taste of classic German operetta or to indulge in a longer listening session. Whether you're a seasoned operetta fan or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to charm and entertain.

August 29, 2014

The Art Of Singing

About Nico Dostal

Nico Dostal, born Nikolaus Josef Michael Dostal, was an Austrian composer renowned for his enchanting contributions to the worlds of operetta and film music. Born in Korneuburg, Lower Austria, in 1895, Dostal's musical journey began under the influence of his musically inclined family, which included his grandfather and uncle, both military bandmasters. Initially pursuing law at the University of Vienna, Dostal's passion for music led him to the Academy for Church Music in Klosterneuburg, where he honed his craft and gained recognition with his "Große Messe" in D-Dur, premiered in 1913.

Throughout his career, Dostal composed 24 operettas and over 20 film scores, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. His works include beloved pieces like "The Emperor's Waltz" and "The Hungarian Wedding," as well as the hit operetta "Clivia," which premiered in Berlin in 1933. Dostal's compositions often reflected the elegance and charm of Viennese operetta, earning him a place among the greats like Johann Strauss Jr., Oscar Straus, Franz Lehár, and Robert Stolz. He also worked as an arranger for these esteemed composers, further enriching his musical legacy.

Dostal's life and work spanned significant historical periods, including his service in World War I and his later residence in Salzburg. His music continues to captivate audiences, offering a glimpse into the golden age of operetta and the enduring appeal of Viennese melody.