Fascinating Works by Hans Stadlmair
Hans Stadlmair (1929–2019) was a distinguished Austrian conductor and composer, most renowned for his long tenure as artistic director of the Münchener Kammerorchester (Munich Chamber Orchestra), a position he held from 1956 to 1995. Stadlmair led the ensemble through thousands of concerts worldwide, shaping its sound and reputation in the chamber music landscape.
Key Achievements and Collaborations
Stadlmair conducted over 6,000 concerts and collaborated with leading orchestras, artists, and festivals, including the Salzburg Festival from 1976 onward. He led several international tours with the Münchener Kammerorchester, earning acclaim in Europe, the USA, South America, Africa, and Asia. His collaborations extended to esteemed musicians like Karl Richter, and with ensembles such as the Münchener Bach-Orchester. He also directed numerous radio and record company productions, with over 500 recordings for Bavarian Radio and labels such as Deutsche Grammophon, Orfeo, and Denon.
Notable Recordings and Premieres
Stadlmair recorded key works from the classical repertoire, including Joseph Haydn's Trumpet Concerto and Michael Haydn's Trumpet Concerto in D major, featuring trumpeter Maurice André. He premiered Wilhelm Killmayer's Fin al punto (1971) and Ulrich Stranz's Contrasubjekte (1981). He conducted acclaimed projects such as Frank Martin's Polyptique and numerous pieces by composers like Leopold Mozart and Franz Danzi, helping to revive and popularize lesser-known masterpieces.
Stadlmair as Composer
Although primarily celebrated as a conductor, Stadlmair was also an accomplished composer. His style is often described as neo-Baroque, with a focus on instrumental and orchestral textures, though he avoided opera. His selected works include Toccata for Strings and Harpsichord (1966), Trumpet Concerto with Strings (1967), Sinfonia serena for Strings (1970), and several choral pieces, performed widely.
Stadlmair's Musical Influences
In our lineup, we have decided to showcase some of the essentials from the classical titan, Haydn. Known for his role in the development of chamber music, Haydn was a prominent composer that Stadlmair was deeply inspired by. Haydn's essentials embody the spirit of classical music, and we believe it narrates a perfect introduction to the grandeur of Stadlmair's influences.
You'll also be able to explore selections from Handel: Arias, expertly performed by various artists. Handel's distinctive baroque style had a profound impact on Stadlmair's compositions.
Another highlight of our program focuses on the exceptional performances by Münchener Kammerorchester and Münchener Bach-Orchester, under the baton of Hans Stadlmair and Karl Richter. Expect offerings of instrumental brilliance with lavish orchestrations that echo every note of their dedication and talent.
Indeed, immersing yourself in the mind-boggling processions led by Hans Stadlmair offers a fascinating insight into the world of classical music. So equip your headphones and get ready to lose yourself amidst the enchanting symphonies by this legendary artist.