Albert Lortzing: Regina

Though largely unknown outside his homeland, Albert Lortzing (1801-1851) was Germany's leading comic opera composer in the first half of the 19th century. Largely self-taught, Lortzing had a melodic gift coupled with an eye for good librettos, leading to successful humorous light operas. Much of his music is derivative of Mozart and Weber, albeit with a light touch special to himself. Regina is something of an odd man out in his list of operas, in that it has a dark and tragic hue. The libretto arose from the upheavals and revolutions of 1848. The suppression of those upheavals meant that the opera was never staged during Lortzing's lifetime. This is a pity, as Regina contains many fine melodies and is very enjoyable. Download: Track 1 (Overture), Track 8 (Act 1 Finale)