Handel and Telemann kept up a robust correspondence and, not surprisingly, Telemann’s friendship and correspondence resulted in numerous Conversations between the two composers. And perhaps uniquely, this was a true two-way Conversation, with each man influencing the other. Here is an example of how Telemann influenced Handel. Handel, a subscriber to Telemann’s Tafelmusik publication, took … Continue reading Telemann and Handel
Tag: telemann
Telemann and the Orchestra
Telemann’s contributions to the development of the modern orchestra should be noted. He wrote a ton of “overtures”—not necessarily for operas, but rather as proto-symphonies. These multi-movement works are the bridge from the concerto grosso form to the symphonies of Haydn and Mozart. Georg Philipp Telemann, Overture in B Minor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08r6oV9jCS0&list=RD08r6oV9jCS0&index=1 Telemann's favorite instrument may … Continue reading Telemann and the Orchestra
Telemann and Opera
Telemann’s operas have fallen largely out of favor: I cannot recall one being given a major production in my lifetime in NYC. That is unfortunate, as he and Handel were responsible for essentially creating the Germanic opera tradition. Here is a selection from his best-known opera, Der geduldige Socrates. Rodisette’s Aria, which is occasionally selected … Continue reading Telemann and Opera
Baroque Music VIII: Georg Philipp Telemann (1681-1767)
If you grew up playing classical music, I’d wager that you played something by Georg Philipp Telemann. The odds would be in my favor—he composed about 3000 works over his lifetime (more than Bach and Handel, combined). Granted, he had a very long career to do so, having been a child prodigy on several instruments … Continue reading Baroque Music VIII: Georg Philipp Telemann (1681-1767)
A Gertus History of Music 