Im Himmel Gibt`s Lachs

There was a time when Georg Philipp Telemann was the most difficult cataloging problem in music – so many compositions but no thematic catalog. The discographer in me shied away. But in 1983 Werner Menke compiled a two-volume Telemann Vocal Works Catalog (TVWV), quickly followed by Martin Ruhnke’s three-volume Telemann Works Catalog (TWV) in 1984, 1992, and 1999, which lists only the instrumental works. Brian Robins in another review (30:3) cited TVWV numbers under the other siglum. The TVWV numbers are included in the headnote mainly to suggest how vast the list is. Oddly, considering that most of these works have never been recorded, cpo has already issued another recording of the last cantata (30:3). A late work published in 1759, this Ascension cantata is the setting of an ode by Daniel Schiebeler, employing three trumpets and tympani as well as three flutes. Four soloists each have a movement. This work alone was recorded in 1997.

This compilation of German popular music represents the diversity of songs and dances that might be heard at the annual Munich Oktoberfest. This Bavarian festival, lasting for sixteen days in September and October, was first held in 1810. Since 1960, however, the Oktoberfest has become a world-famous celebration of local German food, such as würstl, pretzels and sauerkraut, and, of course, beer. There are strict regulations governing which beers can be served at the Oktoberfest; currently only six breweries are approved, all brewing beer within the Munich city limits. The music played at the Oktoberfest, in complete contrast to the exclusive nature of its beer, is highly eclectic. This compilation will evoke the atmosphere of Oktoberfest, lederhosen, the dirndl and huge steins overflowing with German beer before you even drink a drop. Prost!