[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 (31–40)
Clarinet Concerto No. 1, Third MovementCarl Maria von Weber
From Clarinet Concerto No.
1 in F minor, Op.
73 – 3rd movement: Rondo, Allegretto (round dance, somewhat fast).
The finely articulated, leaping passages make full use of the instrument’s characteristics.
Clarinet: Antanas Makštutis; orchestra: the Kaunas Symphony Orchestra of Lithuania.
Clarinet Concerto No. 2, First MovementCarl Maria von Weber
From Clarinet Concerto No.
2 in E-flat major, Op.
74 — First Movement: Allegro (Fast).
After a long introduction, the clarinet makes a dramatic leap from the high register down three octaves.
The clarinet soloist is Han Kim, and the orchestra is the Suwon Philharmonic Orchestra of Korea.
German DanceCarl Maria von Weber
Carl Maria von Weber, also known as a founder of German opera, was born into a musical family, received musical training from an early age, and was reportedly expected by his father to become a prodigy like Mozart.
His German Dances, which he composed around the age of fifteen, already reveal a glimpse of his budding talent.
These twelve elegant and rhythmical piano solos overflow with expressive richness, showcasing a variety of rhythms and melodies.
This work, which lets you experience the passion and creativity of a young genius, is a masterpiece I highly recommend to anyone wishing to study classical piano.
Seven Variations on Bianchi’s aria “Come here, beautiful Dorina,” Op. 7Carl Maria von Weber
Carl Maria von Weber, known as a reformer of orchestral conducting and layout in the early Romantic era as well as an opera composer, left a solo piano work titled “Seven Variations on Bianchi’s Aria ‘Vieni, Dorina bella,’ Op.
7.” Based on an aria by the Italian opera composer Bianchi, this set of variations showcases brilliant technique and a wide expressive range.
Each variation introduces a different style, unfolding one emotive melody after another.
It’s a highly recommended piece for piano enthusiasts, offering a full appreciation of Weber’s romantic musicality and innovative compositional techniques.
Piano Concerto No. 1 in C major, Op. 11Carl Maria von Weber
Carl Maria von Weber, a major composer of the German Romantic era best known for the opera Der Freischütz, wrote the Piano Concerto No.
1.
Premiered by Weber himself in 1811, the piece consists of three movements.
While it reflects the influence of Mozart and Beethoven, it also showcases Weber’s own distinctive innovations.
Notably, the second movement’s unusual instrumentation offers a chamber music-like beauty that captivates listeners, and the work’s virtuosic passages sweep audiences into a whirl of excitement.
It’s a highly recommended piece for anyone looking to savor a masterpiece of the piano concerto repertoire.
[Weber] Masterpieces by the Founder of German Opera (41–50)
Piano Concerto No. 2 (Little), F minor, Op. 79Carl Maria von Weber
Carl Maria von Weber, a major composer of the German Romantic tradition and often called the “founder of German opera.” His Konzertstück for piano and orchestra—sometimes referred to as a “concert piece in concerto style”—is cast in a single continuous movement.
Based on a romantic tale reminiscent of medieval scenes, the work vividly conveys, through passionate and virtuosic piano writing, the feelings of a lady of the castle longing for her knight while he is on campaign.
The orchestra is also employed with great finesse to heighten the narrative—truly a quintessential Weber creation.
Rondo Brillante, Op. 62Carl Maria von Weber
Carl Maria von Weber, a leading composer of German Romanticism and known as the founder of German opera.
Rondo brillante, Op.
62 is one of his piano works and is also known by titles such as Brilliant Rondo.
Composed in 1819 for performance in the court salon in Dresden, the piece captivates with its refined brilliance and its successive scene changes reminiscent of opera.
Although it presents technical challenges, its melody and structure make it easy to follow the musical flow, and with careful, diligent practice it can become a piece worthy of performance in concert.