Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Joseph Martin Kraus, a German-Swedish composer whose works beautifully blend the elegance of the classical era with the emerging romanticism of the late 18th century. This album, "Joseph Martin Kraus – A Musical Portrait," offers a captivating journey through his diverse compositions, showcasing his mastery of chamber music and classical forms.
The album opens with "Proserpin, VB 19," a dramatic cantata that highlights Kraus's ability to craft compelling narratives through music. The piece is followed by the delicate and refined "Flute Quintet in D Major, Op. 7, VB 188," which exemplifies his skill in writing for smaller ensembles. The "String Quartet in B-Flat Major, Op. 1, No. 2, VB 181" further demonstrates his prowess in this genre, with its intricate harmonies and expressive melodies.
Kraus's symphonic writing is represented by the "Symphony in C Minor, VB 142," a work that reveals his capacity for large-scale composition. The album also includes a poignant "Begravningskantata för Gustavus III, VB 42," a funeral cantata that underscores Kraus's ability to convey deep emotion through his music.
Throughout the album, Kraus's unique voice shines, making this collection a compelling exploration of his contributions to classical music. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
(C) 2012 Musica Sveciae(P) 2012 Musica Sveciae
Tracks
Proserpin, VB 19: OvertureJoseph Martin Kraus, Hillevi Martinpelto, Peter Mattei, Stockholm Chamber Choir, Stockholm Chamber Orchestra, Mark Tatlow
Proserpin, VB 19, Scene 1: Jupiter, Gudarnes Gud, vare ära! (Chorus)Joseph Martin Kraus, Hillevi Martinpelto, Peter Mattei, Stockholm Chamber Choir, Stockholm Chamber Orchestra, Mark Tatlow
Proserpin, VB 19, Scene 18: Aria. Mörka öknar, låt mig dölja (Ceres)Joseph Martin Kraus, Hillevi Martinpelto, Peter Mattei, Stockholm Chamber Choir, Stockholm Chamber Orchestra, Mark Tatlow
Proserpin, VB 19, Scene 21: Aria. Gå Pluto åt din Maka njuta (Jupiter)Joseph Martin Kraus, Hillevi Martinpelto, Peter Mattei, Stockholm Chamber Choir, Stockholm Chamber Orchestra, Mark Tatlow
Proserpin, VB 19, Scene 21: Gudar och menskjor och skuggor beprisen (Chorus)Joseph Martin Kraus, Hillevi Martinpelto, Peter Mattei, Stockholm Chamber Choir, Stockholm Chamber Orchestra, Mark Tatlow
Flute Quintet in D Major, Op. 7, VB 188: I. Allegro moderatoJoseph Martin Kraus, Lena Weman, Jaap Schröder, Per Sandklef, Bjorn Sjogren, Kari Ottesen
Zum Geburtstage des Konigs, VB 41: Tone leise, goldne SaiteJoseph Martin Kraus, Barbara Bonney, Drottningholm Court Theatre Orchestra, Thomas Schuback
String Quartet in B-Flat Major, Op. 1, No. 2, VB 181: I. Allegro moderatoJoseph Martin Kraus, Lysell String Quartet
String Quartet in B-Flat Major, Op. 1, No. 2, VB 181: II. LargoJoseph Martin Kraus, Lysell String Quartet
String Quartet in B-Flat Major, Op. 1, No. 2, VB 181: III. AllegrettoJoseph Martin Kraus, Lysell String Quartet
Symphony in C Minor, VB 142: I. Larghetto: AllegroJoseph Martin Kraus, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, Anthony Halstead
Begravningskantata för Gustavus III, VB 42: Dygder, snille, bördens äraJoseph Martin Kraus, Hillevi Martinpelto, Christina Högman, Claes-Håkan Ahnsjö, Thomas Lander, Uppsala University Chamber Choir, Drottningholm Baroque Ensemble, Stefan Parkman
Begravningskantata för Gustavus III, VB 42: Kungars Gud!Joseph Martin Kraus, Hillevi Martinpelto, Christina Högman, Claes-Håkan Ahnsjö, Thomas Lander, Uppsala University Chamber Choir, Drottningholm Baroque Ensemble, Stefan Parkman