Johann Rosenmüller, born in Oelsnitz, Germany, initially pursued theological studies in Leipzig in 1640, with no clear indication of a musical career at that time.
Album & Artwork
This album, presented by Ensemble 1684, features a cross-section of Johann Rosenmüller's work to mark his 400th birthday, including pieces from his Leipzig and Venetian periods.
Composer Biography
Rosenmüller's musical talent for creative transformation developed after he became an assistant teacher at Leipzig's Thomasschule in 1642.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Heinrich Schütz, the Dresden court capellmeister, was a mentor and champion for Johann Rosenmüller, whose works and new Italian concerto patterns inspired Rosenmüller's own experiments.
Composer Biography
In 1655, Johann Rosenmüller was dismissed from all his offices in Leipzig and fled due to accusations of 'sodomitic abuse of boys' at St Thomas's, though the exact nature of the offense is debated.
Historical Context
In the 17th century, 'sodomy' was a broad term encompassing all non-heterosexual acts, including homosexuality, bestiality, and pederasty.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Rosenmüller's flight to Venice, Italy, after his scandal, proved beneficial for music history, as he continued to study Monteverdi and Cavalli's operas, adapting their principles for his church music.
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