Reinhard Keiser (1674–1739) was a prolific German composer renowned for his significant contribution to the world of Baroque opera. Born in Teuchern, within the Electorate of Saxony, Keiser showed early musical promise and went on to study at the Thomasschule in Leipzig. He soon ventured to Hamburg, a city that was to become central to his career, where he began composing operas for the Theater am Gänsemarkt.

Keiser's musical genius is evident through a body of work that encompasses more than 100 operas, demonstrating both his versatility and his skill in capturing the emotional depths of his characters. Known for integrating German, French, and Italian operatic styles, Keiser's compositions were both innovative and influential in the development of German opera. "Der blutige und sterbende Jesus" and the "Markuspassion" stand as testaments to his adeptness beyond the opera realm, into sacred music, where he similarly left a notable mark. His legacy is preserved through revivals of his works, allowing contemporary audiences to experience the emotional resonance and musical complexity that Keiser brought to the Baroque scene.

Genres

Baroque

German Opera

Latest Release

Keiser: Octavia: Ach! Nero ist nicht Nero mehr!...

Reinhard Keiser

Single - Released August 26, 2022