Hans Sommer - Sommer: Rübezahl (LP)

Hans Sommer's "Rübezahl" is a captivating journey through the world of opera, offering a rich and immersive experience that spans nearly two and a half hours. This album, released in 2017 under the Pan Classics label, features the fantastical-romantic opera "Rübezahl und der Sackpfeifer von Neisse," a four-act masterpiece composed by Hans Sommer with a libretto that weaves a tale of love, music, and the transformative power of art.

The opera, conducted by Laurent Wagner and performed by the Philharmonisches Orchester Altenburg-Gera, is brought to life with the vocal talents of Anne Preuß and Hans-Georg Priese. The album comprises 32 tracks, each contributing to the dramatic and musical narrative that unfolds throughout the four acts.

From the stirring preludes that set the stage for each act to the powerful arias and ensemble pieces that drive the story forward, "Rübezahl" is a testament to Sommer's compositional skill and the enduring appeal of opera. The themes of love, freedom, and the redemptive power of music are explored through a rich tapestry of orchestral and vocal performances, making this album a must-listen for fans of classical and operatic music.

Whether you are a seasoned opera enthusiast or new to the genre, Hans Sommer's "Rübezahl" offers a compelling and engaging exploration of the human experience through the lens of music and drama. Dive into this operatic world and discover the timeless beauty of Sommer's composition.