Suppé: Pique Dame

Dive into the enchanting world of Franz von Suppé's operetta masterpiece with "Suppé: Pique Dame," a captivating collection of excerpts from Act I. Released on November 1, 2009, this album offers a delightful journey through the composer's signature light and engaging musical style. Franz von Suppé, born Francesco Ezechiele Ermenegildo de Suppé, was an Austrian composer renowned for his contributions to light operas and theatre music. This album showcases his talent with a selection of tracks that highlight the charm and wit of his compositional prowess.

"Pique Dame," originally premiered in 1864, is a revised version of Suppé's earlier work "Die Kartenschlägerin." The operetta, based loosely on Alexander Pushkin's short story "The Queen of Spades," is brought to life with a German-language libretto by S. Strasser, likely Suppé's second wife, Sofie Strasser. The album features a series of excerpts that capture the essence of the operetta, from the lively overture to the intricate arias and duets that make up the first act.

Recorded in the Klaus-von-Bismark-Saal, Cologne, between November 21-29, 2006, and conducted by Takeshi Ooi, this album benefits from a rich and detailed sound. The performances are brought to life by the IPOJ at the Sumida Triphony Hall in Tokyo on May 17th, 2009. The album's duration of 55 minutes ensures a satisfying listen, filled with the melodic richness and theatrical flair that Suppé is known for.

Whether you're a fan of operetta or simply appreciate beautiful music, "Suppé: Pique Dame" offers a delightful exploration of Franz von Suppé's genius. This album is a testament to his enduring legacy as a composer of light operas and a key figure in the development of the operetta genre.

Franz von Suppé, born Francesco Ezechiele Ermenegildo de Suppé in 1819, is celebrated as the creator of the Viennese operetta. Born in Split, Dalmatien (now Croatia), Suppé's musical journey began despite his initial studies in law, as his father wished. His prolific career spanned over two centuries, leaving behind more than 200 stage works, predominantly operettas. Suppé's compositions, including the renowned overtures to "Dichter und Bauer" and "Leichte Kavallerie," have solidified his status as one of the most significant operetta composers, standing alongside giants like Jacques Offenbach, Johann Strauss, and Karl Millöcker. His first operetta, "Das Pensionat," premiered in 1860, marking the beginning of a genre that would define his legacy. Suppé's contributions to the world of music continue to enchant audiences worldwide.