Richard Flury's final opera, "Der schlimm-heilige Vitalis," is a delightful and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, wrapped in a comedic and engaging narrative. This world premiere recording, released by Toccata Classics, offers a unique opportunity to experience the last opera composed by the Swiss maestro before his passing in 1967.
"Der schlimm-heilige Vitalis," which translates to "Lustful Brother Vitalis," is a clever and humorous take on the dangers of celibacy. The opera follows the titular character, a monk who preaches piety and clean living, as he grapples with his own repressed desires. Based on a novella by Gottfried Keller, the story is set against the backdrop of jolly village life, creating a delightful contrast with the religious themes at its core.
The opera is presented in five acts, with each scene meticulously composed to bring the story to life. The recording features an impressive cast, including Rebecca Nelsen, Marlene Gassner, Matthias Stier, and Markus Eiche, accompanied by the Nuremberg Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Paul Mann. The performance is a testament to Flury's compositional prowess and the skill of the performers.
With a runtime of approximately two hours, this recording is a substantial and engaging listen. It's an excellent addition to any classical music collection, offering a unique blend of comedy, drama, and insightful social commentary. Whether you're a fan of Richard Flury's work or simply appreciate well-crafted opera, "Der schlimm-heilige Vitalis" is sure to captivate and entertain.
Richard Flury, born in the quaint Swiss town of Biberist in 1896, was a prolific composer and conductor whose musical journey was as rich and varied as the landscapes of his homeland. Flury's early exposure to music came from his restaurateur father, an accomplished amateur trumpeter, igniting a lifelong passion for composition and performance. His formal training spanned Switzerland and Austria, studying under notable figures such as Hans Huber and Joseph Marx.
Flury's compositional output is vast, encompassing over 200 secular works across all genres. His neo-Romantic style, marked by unexpected rhythmic developments, is evident in his three operas, seven symphonies, and numerous concertos. Among his notable works are the opera "Casanova e l'Abertolli" and the "Symphony No. 1 in D-minor," showcasing his mastery of orchestration and dramatic storytelling.
As a conductor, Flury led the Solothurn City Orchestra for three decades and was deeply involved in the local music scene, conducting various orchestras and choirs, and even performing in dance bands. His dedication to music education was equally impressive, teaching at the Solothurn Canton School for over 30 years.
Flury's legacy endures through his extensive body of work, which continues to captivate audiences with its emotional depth and technical brilliance. His music offers a window into the soul of a composer who was as much a part of his community as he was a visionary on the global stage.
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