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Johann Adolf Hasse: Requiem in e-flat; Miserere in D Minor
Dresdner Kammerchon,
Dresden Barockorchester
Hans-Christoph Rademann, conductor
Carus 83.175 (2005; 65' 04'')
Johann Adolf Hasse: Missa ultima in G Minor
Sächsiches Vocalensemble,
Virtuosi Saxoniae
Ludwig Güttler, conductor
Carus 83.240 (2006; 63' 30'')
In looking at history, it seems there is nothing less predictable than the opinion of the masses. Some "star" composers of the past have become little more than footnotes in today's history textbooks, while some who were barely known in their time are identified today as masters. The average music aficionado would recognize names like Bach, Handel, or perhaps even Telemann. But ask them what they know by Hasse, and they would likely be at a loss.
At last, the reputations of fine composers like Hasse are being newly bolstered by groups such as the Dresden Chamber Choir and Baroque Orchestra and the Sächsisches Vocal Ensemble, who record the great works of such composers and bring them back to the public eye. Two recent releases from these ensembles present three major works by Handel's near-contemporary Johann Adolf Hasse (1699-1783), master of bel canto, composer of...