Nicolai: Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Otto Nicolai's "Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor," a delightful operatic journey that has captivated audiences since its 1977 release. This comprehensive 24-track album, spanning over two hours, is a testament to Nicolai's masterful composition and the timeless charm of this comic-fantastic opera.

Composed by Otto Nicolai, this three-act opera features a libretto by Salomon Hermann Mosenthal and is brought to life with the exquisite performances of the Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks, conducted by the renowned Rafael Kubelík. The album includes the full opera, from the lively overture to the final, satisfying resolution, offering a complete and immersive experience.

"Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor" is a whimsical tale filled with humor, romance, and a touch of the supernatural. The opera's highlight is the mischievous and clever women of Windsor, who outwit the pompous Sir John Falstaff in a series of clever schemes. The music is as lively and engaging as the story itself, with memorable melodies and vibrant orchestration that bring the characters and their adventures to life.

This 1977 release on the Decca Music Group Ltd. label is a standout among the relatively few recordings of this opera, making it a valuable addition to any classical music collection. The album's high-quality production and attention to detail ensure that every note and nuance is captured, providing an authentic and enjoyable listening experience.

Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor" offers a delightful and engaging exploration of Nicolai's musical genius. From the playful overture to the enchanting final notes, this album is a celebration of music, storytelling, and the enduring appeal of this classic opera.

1 januari 1977

℗ 1977 Decca Music Group Limited

About Otto Nicolai

Otto Nicolai, born Carl Otto Ehrenfried Nicolai, was a prolific German composer and conductor, renowned for his significant contributions to the world of opera and orchestral music. Born in Königsberg, East Prussia (now Kaliningrad, Russia) in 1810, Nicolai's legacy endures through his operatic masterpiece, "Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor" (The Merry Wives of Windsor), an adaptation of Shakespeare's comedy. This opera, his most celebrated work, stands out as the only one of his operas composed in German, with his earlier works penned in Italian. Beyond his operatic achievements, Nicolai's repertoire includes lieder, orchestral works, choral compositions, and pieces for various ensembles and solo instruments. His influence extends to his role as one of the founders of the prestigious Vienna Philharmonic, cementing his place as a pivotal figure in classical music history. Nicolai's life, though brief, left an indelible mark on the musical landscape, making him a composer whose works continue to captivate audiences worldwide.