Otto Nicolai: Herr, auf dich traue ich. Psalmen

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the sacred and profound musical world of Otto Nicolai with the album "Herr, auf dich traue ich. Psalmen." This captivating collection, released on April 1, 2012, under the Carus label, features the stellar performance of the Kammerchor Stuttgart, expertly directed by Frieder Bernius. Spanning a concise yet impactful 49 minutes, the album showcases Nicolai's mastery of choral composition through a series of beautifully rendered psalms and liturgical works.

The album opens with the stirring "Liturgie Nr. 1: Herr, sei uns gnädig / Kyrie eleison," setting the tone for a journey through both familiar and lesser-known works by Nicolai. Highlights include the exuberant "Jauchzet dem Herrn, alle Welt" (Psalm 100) and the introspective "Herr, auf dich traue ich" (Psalm 31), demonstrating the choir's exceptional skill and clarity. The album also features the intricate "Liturgie Nr. 1: Offertorium in assumptione beatae mariae virginis" and a comprehensive setting of Psalm 54, showcasing Nicolai's versatility and depth.

With a repertoire that has been meticulously recorded and performed with excellent intonation, this album offers a rare opportunity to explore the works of Otto Nicolai, a composer whose contributions to choral music have been historically underrepresented. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of classical choral music or a newcomer eager to discover the rich traditions of sacred music, "Herr, auf dich traue ich. Psalmen" promises a deeply enriching listening experience.

April 1, 2012

℗ 2012 Carus

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.