NICOLAI, O.: Lustigen Weiber von Windsor

Album Description

Experience the timeless charm of Otto Nicolai's "Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor" (The Merry Wives of Windsor), a delightful operatic adaptation of Shakespeare's classic comedy. This 1978 release, presented by Berlin Classics, captures the essence of Nicolai's 1849 opera in a captivating one-hour performance.

The opera, set to a German libretto by Salomon Hermann Mosenthal, brings to life the humorous and intricate plot of Shakespeare's "The Merry Wives of Windsor." The story revolves around the clever women Frau Fluth (Mrs. Ford) and Frau Reich, who outsmart the pompous Sir John Falstaff, adding a layer of wit and mischief that is both entertaining and engaging.

This album features a selection of the opera's most memorable arias and ensembles, including the lively overture, the charming duet "Nein, das ist wirklich doch zu keck," and the enchanting trio "Die Glocke schlug schon Mitternacht." The performance showcases the talents of the Staatskapelle Berlin, conducted by Bernhard Klee, delivering a rich and vibrant musical experience.

"Die lustigen Weiber von Windsor" is not just an opera; it's a celebration of humor, intelligence, and the enduring power of love and friendship. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a delightful introduction to the world of Otto Nicolai and his masterful composition. Enjoy the timeless melodies and the wit of Shakespeare's characters, beautifully brought to life in this classic recording.

1 januari 1978

2009 Copyright Control

1978 VEB Deutsche Schallplatten Berlin

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.