Strauss: Daphne, Op. 82, TrV 272

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Richard Strauss with the captivating opera "Daphne, Op. 82, TrV 272." Released on January 11, 2019, under the Profil label, this live recording showcases the brilliance of the Staatskapelle Dresden and the conducting prowess of Karl Böhm. Spanning a duration of 2 hours and 5 minutes, this album is a testament to Strauss's mastery of orchestration and his ability to craft compelling dramatic narratives.

The opera, composed between 1935 and 1938, is a mythological tale of transformation and longing, centered around the nymph Daphne and her encounters with the gods Apollo and Dionysus. The libretto, written by Joseph Gregor, is based on ancient Greek mythology and offers a rich tapestry of emotional and philosophical themes.

This album features a stellar cast of vocalists, including Werner Liebing, who brings depth and nuance to the role of Apollo. The Staatskapelle Dresden, one of Germany's most renowned orchestras, delivers a powerful and evocative performance, capturing the full range of Strauss's lush and complex score.

From the stirring overture to the climactic transformation scene, each track is a masterclass in orchestral and vocal artistry. Highlights include the tender aria "O bleib, geliebter Tag!" and the dramatic ensemble "Furchtbare Schmach dem Gotte!" The final transformation scene is a tour de force, showcasing Strauss's ability to blend orchestral and vocal elements into a seamless and transcendent whole.

Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Daphne, Op. 82, TrV 272" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album is available on major streaming platforms, including Spotify, and is a must-listen for anyone interested in the works of Richard Strauss and the rich tradition of German opera.

Richard Strauss, born in Munich in 1864, was a titan of late Romantic and early modern classical music, renowned for his innovative tone poems and operas. As a successor to the likes of Richard Wagner and Franz Liszt, Strauss' compositions are celebrated for their pioneering orchestration and advanced harmonic styles. His prolific career spanned over five decades, during which he composed 16 operas that continue to be widely performed today. Strauss' music, characterized by its dramatic intensity and rich orchestration, offers an immersive experience that transcends time, making him a dominant figure in classical music at the turn of the 20th century. His works, ranging from orchestral masterpieces to operatic triumphs, continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Strauss' legacy as a composer and conductor is a testament to his enduring influence on the world of classical music.