Reinhard Keiser Composer of the German school Country: Germany

1. Early Life and Career
2. Opera Composer
3. Russian Commission and Later Years
4. Versatile Composer
5. Legacy and Rediscovery

Early Life and Career

Johann Philipp Krieger was a German composer whose talent was likened to that of Alessandro Scarlatti by the renowned composer Johann Adolph Hasse. Born in 1665, Krieger initially trained as a violinist.

Opera Composer

In 1692, Krieger composed the music for the pastoral play "Ismena." Two years later, he debuted his opera "Bassilius" in Hamburg, where he became a prolific composer for the local operatic stage. Over the next four decades, Krieger wrote approximately 116 operas for Hamburg.

Russian Commission and Later Years

In 1729, Krieger traveled to Russia at the invitation of Tsar Peter II. He was tasked with assembling a troupe of singers and musicians for the Russian court but ultimately declined the commission. Returning to Germany, Krieger composed his final opera, "Circe," in 1734.

Versatile Composer

Beyond opera, Krieger displayed his versatility in a wide range of genres. He wrote numerous sacred compositions, including oratorios, madrigals, and motets. His instrumental works included sonatas, suites, and concertos.

Legacy and Rediscovery

Krieger's music faded into obscurity after his death in 1725. However, in recent decades, there has been a renewed interest in his work, particularly in the field of early music performance. In 2000, the Berlin Academy of Early Music, led by René Jacobs, recorded a stunning performance of Krieger's opera "Croesus" (1710), featuring a stellar cast of soloists.