Emilie Mayer began her serious musical studies after her father's suicide in 1840, moving to Stettin to study with Carl Loewe, who recognized her 'God-given talent'.
Composer Biography
Emilie Mayer was a 'late bloomer,' almost 38 years old when she made her public debut with a concert in Berlin in 1850.
Performer Biography
Michael Alexander Willens, the artistic director of the Kölner Akademie, has a rare depth of knowledge in various performance practice styles, from Baroque to jazz and pop.
Composition History
Emilie Mayer composed at least 12 overtures, though only four have survived in their entirety, including the Faust Overture.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Emilie Mayer, described as 'Europe's greatest female composer' by a biographer, was unique in her generation for not being deterred by patriarchal gender norms.
Interpretation
Tobias Koch, the pianist on this album, is known for his 'disarming spontaneity' and pioneering work in historically informed performance on various period keyboard instruments.
Critical Reception
Despite her talent, Emilie Mayer's larger works faced a 'glass ceiling' in the 19th century, with critics acknowledging her skill but denying women's ability to achieve artistic excellence.
