Nico Dostal (1895 – 1981) was an Austrian composer chiefly known for his operettas. Born in Korneuburg, Austria, he grew up during a time when operetta was a significant part of the cultural landscape. Dostal's career began in earnest as a Kapellmeister during World War I, where he was responsible for the entertainment of troops. After the war, he initially worked as a cinema pianist and a choir master, which helped him hone his skills in music composition and conducting.

During the 1920s, Dostal's focus shifted to the composition of light operas and operettas, often embedding wit and charm typical of the genre. He achieved success with works like "Clivia" and "Die ungarische Hochzeit," which became particularly popular, demonstrating his talent for blending catchy melodies with the rich tapestry of operatic performance. His operetta "Prinzessin Nofretete" further secured his position as a respected composer in the realm of light musical theatre. Despite the decline of the operetta's popularity post-World War II, Dostal continued to be revered for his contributions to the genre, with later generations also appreciating recordings of his works, including his own performances as a conductor, as seen in releases like "Nico Dostal Conducts Nico Dostal." His work remained an important connection to the golden age of the operetta, bridging the past tradition with contemporary appreciation.

Genres

German Opera

Operetta

Latest Release

Dostal: Clivia

Nico Dostal•

Marius Burkert•

Grazer Philharmonisches Orchester

Album - 20 Tracks - Released June 20, 2023