According to Peter Damm’s CV, he played Hänsel und Gretel at age of 16-17. It is Christmas event to see this lovely opera with children. I guess he played whole opera instead of just overture. Peter Damm joined this recording at age of 36. I am curious how he felt in the recording.
Music
This is famous and beloved opera in Germany. It might be more popular than Wagner or Richard Strauss.
As original story from the Grimm Fairy Tales is a little bit tough for children, the script was modified with mild tone, considering children can enjoy the opera with parents.
Horn section plays theme of famous “Abentsegen” in the overture. My Master played arrangement for horn ensemble with his friends in evening university building. He said it is still good memory for him.
My Master just play horn without studying at all !
You shouldn’t disclose the real story. 💦
Players and Recording
Conductor：Otmar Suitner
Orchester: Staatzkapelle Dresden
Singers：Theo Adam（Father ）, Ingeborg Springer (Hänsel）, Renate Hoff （Gretel)、Peter Schreier （Witch）Renate Krahmer（Sandman ）
Chor: Dresdner Kreuzchor
Recording engineer : Claus Strüben
Year：1973（ Peter Damm 35-36 years old ）
My favorite
Overture
You can’t miss the beginning of the overture. Peter Damm and his colleges sing “Abendsagen” with silky sound. It is good start of this project and orchestra succeed high quality of horn section. Staatzkapelle is influenced by Peter Damm and the high tension keeps to the end.
Pantomime
Next my favorite part is “Pantomime” which start right after “Abendsagen”. The 14 Angels in “Abendsagen” really fall down from the sky and surround the sleeping kids with dancing.Children who watch the opera are excited to see the 14 angels in various costume. Peter Damm plays wonderful music here again with very gentle sound.
Lyrics of “Abendsagen” is as follows.
“Abends, will ich schlafen gehen, vierzehn Engel um mich stehn,,, ”
( In the evening, when I fell asleep, 14 angels come to me. )
What a happy sleep surrounded by 14 angels.
I wish the 14 angels also come to me.
Be careful not to be taken away to their plaice by mistake. Hahaha !
