[Weber] Masterpieces by the founder of German opera
Carl Maria von Weber was a German composer, conductor, and pianist of the early Romantic period, born in 1786.
With his opera Der Freischütz, he established the style of German Romantic opera and came to be known as the “founder of German opera.”
He is also known for leaving a profound legacy for future generations, such as reorganizing the orchestra into a layout closer to the modern arrangement and being among the first to use a baton.
While he composed many operas and orchestral works, he also performed as a pianist and was considered one of the finest of his time.
In this article, we introduce some of Weber’s masterpieces and signature works.
Be sure to give them a listen!
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[Weber] Masterpieces by the Founder of German Opera (21–30)
Six Pieces, Op. 3: No. 4, “Andante and Variations”Carl Maria von Weber
Carl Maria von Weber, known as an important composer of the German Romantic school.
The fourth piece, Andante and Variations, from his Six Pieces, Op.
3, begins with a gentle, lyrical Andante and then proceeds as a set of variations that repeat the theme in different guises while gradually increasing the technical demands.
While the Romantic elements are restrained and the work places greater emphasis on classical form and technique, it is highly regarded for showcasing the appeal of piano four-hands.
It is a piece that piano students are strongly encouraged to tackle.
Eight Pieces, Op. 60: No. 7 “March”Carl Maria von Weber
Carl Maria von Weber, a gifted composer who was active at the dawn of the Romantic era.
The seventh piece from his “Eight Pieces, Op.
60” is a captivating piano work reminiscent of a bold soldier’s march.
Its melody unfolds brilliantly over a powerful rhythm, dramatic like a scene from an opera.
The interplay between the hands is exquisite, showcasing expressive power that draws the listener in.
It’s a challenging piece that any pianist with experience will be eager to try.
Weber: Masterpieces by the Founder of German Opera (31–40)
Overture to Der FreischützCarl Maria von Weber
Weber’s opera Der Freischütz is counted among the masterpieces of fairy-tale opera.
Many fairy-tale operas are based on folk tales.
This work is based on a folktale in which six of seven bullets strike exactly where the marksman intends, while the remaining one hits wherever the devil desires.
Clarinet Quintet in B-flat majorCarl Maria von Weber
Weber was a German composer.
In 1815, while serving as music director and conductor at the Prague Opera, he composed his Clarinet Quintet in B-flat major, Op.
34.
It features a solo clarinet carrying the main melody alongside a string quartet.
In the second movement, Adagio, the string quartet creates a solemn atmosphere, while the solo clarinet, tinged with melancholy, lends an elegant character.
First Movement from the Clarinet QuintetCarl Maria von Weber
From Clarinet Quintet in B-flat major, Op.
34 — 1st movement, Allegro (fast).
It begins with harmony from the string quartet, and when the clarinet enters, a sense of motion emerges.
Although marked Allegro, it also features more relaxed passages that are engaging to listen to.
Clarinet: Jen-Hua Hwang.
From the Clarinet Quintet, Movement IIICarl Maria von Weber
From Clarinet Quintet in B-flat major, Op.
34: Movement III, “Menuet-Capriccio, Presto” (courtly dance, caprice, very fast).
It begins briskly at a quick tempo, then in the Trio shifts to a gentle melody—a whimsical movement.
The clarinet is played by Julian Milkis.
4th movement from the Clarinet QuintetCarl Maria von Weber
From Clarinet Quintet in B-flat major, Op.
34, fourth movement: Rondo, Allegro giocoso (a round dance, fast, playfully and cheerfully).
The notes flow brightly and beautifully.
Featuring Karl Leister on clarinet with the string members of the Berlin Philharmonic.