Highlights from Franz Lehar's Merry Widow

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Franz Lehár's timeless operetta with "Highlights from Franz Lehar's Merry Widow." This captivating album, released in 2015 under the Mach60 Music label, offers a delightful selection of arias and orchestral pieces from one of the most beloved works in the operetta repertoire. With a duration of just under 40 minutes, this collection is perfect for both casual listeners and opera enthusiasts seeking a taste of Lehár's masterful composition.

Franz Lehár, the renowned Austro-Hungarian composer, is celebrated for his operettas, and "The Merry Widow" stands as his most famous work. First performed in Vienna in 1905, the operetta tells the charming story of a wealthy widow and her countrymen's efforts to keep her fortune within their principality by finding her a suitable husband. The libretto, penned by Viktor Léon and Leo Stein, is based on an 1861 comedy play, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the already captivating narrative.

This album features a stunning array of highlights, including the iconic "Vilja Song," the lively "Dance Scene," and the romantic "Lippen Schweigen." Each track is performed with exquisite precision, bringing to life the wit, charm, and elegance that define Lehár's music. The album's tracklist is a journey through the operetta's most memorable moments, from the playful "Bitte Meine Herr'n" to the grand "Ballsirenen Waltzer."

Whether you're a seasoned opera aficionado or new to the world of operetta, "Highlights from Franz Lehar's Merry Widow" promises an enchanting listening experience. The album's rich orchestration and soaring melodies are sure to captivate, making it a valuable addition to any music collection.

Franz Lehár, born in 1870 in Komárno, Kingdom of Hungary (now Slovakia), was a renowned Austro-Hungarian composer who left an indelible mark on the world of operetta. Throughout his illustrious career spanning over five decades, Lehár enchanted audiences with his lighthearted and comic works, becoming one of the most significant composers of operetta in classical music history. His most celebrated creation, "The Merry Widow" (Die lustige Witwe), achieved global acclaim and remains his most famous piece. Lehár's compositions are celebrated for their fine craftsmanship and enduring charm. Despite initial aspirations towards grand opera, it was his operettas that secured his legacy, making him the leading composer of operettas in the 20th century. Lehár passed away in Bad Ischl in 1948, leaving behind a substantial body of work that continues to captivate and inspire.