To convince Dürrenmatt, the Vienna State Opera replaced a scheduled "Don Giovanni" performance with Einem's "Dantons Tod" so Dürrenmatt could experience the composer's work live.
Composition History
Gottfried von Einem, the composer, was initially discouraged from setting Friedrich Dürrenmatt's play "Der Besuch der alten Dame" to music due to the difficulties of adapting works by living authors.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Gottfried von Einem, the composer, aimed for his opera to make listeners more humble about their own prosperity, whether mental, physical, or financial.
Performer Biography
Christa Ludwig, who sings Claire Zachanassian, had a long career at the Vienna State Opera, performing roles from Octavian to the Marschallin and Dorabella to Klytaemnestra.
Composition History
The libretto for "Der Besuch der alten Dame" was developed through conversations between composer Gottfried von Einem and author Friedrich Dürrenmatt, including many long night-time phone calls, while Einem was hospitalized with jaundice.
Recording & Production
This album is part of the "Wiener Staatsoper Live" CD series, which publishes live recordings made by Austrian Radio at the Vienna State Opera.
Composition History
Friedrich Dürrenmatt, the author of the play, was initially reluctant to allow an operatic adaptation, having found previous opera productions like "Fidelio" and "Così fan tutte" horrific.
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