Dive into the world of Baroque opera with Carl Heinrich Graun's "Polydorus," a masterful work that showcases the composer's prowess in the genre. This album, released in 2020 under the CPO label, presents Graun's first opera, which premiered in 1728 and was later performed in Hamburg in 1735 to great acclaim. With a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes, this choral masterpiece is a testament to Graun's skill in crafting emotionally resonant music.
"Polydorus" is performed by the talented ensemble Barockwerk Hamburg, conducted by the esteemed Ira Hochman. The opera is sung in German and features a stellar cast, including Alon Harari, Mirko Ludwig, and Fabian Kuhnen, among others. The album is a comprehensive recording of Graun's opera, featuring all five acts and a total of 40 tracks.
Carl Heinrich Graun, a prominent figure in the world of 18th-century opera, is known for his significant contributions to Italian opera. Alongside Johann Adolph Hasse, Graun is celebrated as one of the most important German composers of his time. His work on "Polydorus" highlights his ability to create compelling narratives through music, making this album a essential addition to any classical music collection.
The album features a rich array of arias, recitatives, and choral pieces that bring the dramatic story of "Polydorus" to life. From the opening overture to the final scene, each track is meticulously performed, capturing the essence of Baroque opera and the genius of Carl Heinrich Graun. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the genre, "Polydorus" offers a captivating journey through the world of 18th-century music.
Carl Heinrich Graun, born in 1704 in Wahrenbrück, Germany, was a pivotal figure in the world of German opera during the 18th century. As a composer and tenor, Graun's contributions to the Baroque opera scene were immense, earning him a place alongside Johann Adolph Hasse as one of the most significant German composers of Italian opera of his time. His journey began as a chorister in Dresden, where he honed his skills under the tutelage of Antonio Lotti and Johann Christoph Schmidt. Graun's career flourished under the patronage of Frederick the Great, for whom he served as Kapellmeister, composing numerous operas, sacred works, and instrumental pieces that left an indelible mark on the development of German opera.
Graun's repertoire is diverse and captivating, encompassing operas, passions, cantatas, concertos, trio sonatas, and organ music. His most renowned work, the Passion oratorio "Der Tod Jesu," showcases his mastery of choral composition and his ability to evoke deep emotional resonance. Beyond his musical genius, Graun's life was marked by a deep familial connection to music; he was the youngest of three musical brothers, each contributing significantly to the musical landscape of their time. Graun's legacy endures, celebrated for his innovative contributions to the Baroque opera tradition and his enduring influence on the musical world.
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