Czech Philharmonic ⬩ Daniel Harding

Schumann’s oratorio Paradise and the Peri stands apart from the usual oratorio repertoire because of its secular subject matter that was so typical of the German composer. Its beautiful melodies and loftiness of expression are definitely worthy of attention, and especially when performed by wonderful soloists and an excellent choir.

Duration of the programme 1 hour 40 minutes

Programme

Robert Schumann Das Paradies und die Peri, oratorio for soloists, choir, and orchestra, Op. 50 100'

Performers

Christiane Karg soprano

Johanna Wallroth soprano

Patrizia Nolz mezzosoprano, alto

Avery Amereau mezzo-soprano, alto

Andrew Staples tenor

Ashley Riches baritone, bass

Prague Philharmonic Choir

Lukáš Vasilek choirmaster

Daniel Harding conductor

Czech Philharmonic

Rudolfinum — Dvořák Hall

4/20/2023 Thursday 7:30 PM

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4/21/2023 Friday 7:30 PM

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4/22/2023 Saturday 3:00 PM

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The oratorio Paradise and the Peri was Schumann’s ticket to a place in the company of the greatest composers. Its success was so enormous that it catapulted him overnight from the status of a provincial composer to that of an international star. More than just a critical success, the work was so loved by the public that it got more than 50 performances in the first years after its premiere. About it, Schumann said he had wanted to write an oratorio “not for the choir, but for happy people.” And upon hearing it, Richard Wagner respectfully complemented Schumann: “Not only do I know this beautiful poem; it has even passed through my musical thoughts. But I never found the form that would let me transform it into the language of music. I am therefore sincerely glad that you have found that form.”