Telemann composed the oratorio Herr Gott, dich loben wir (Lord God, we praise you) and companion serenata O erhabnes Glück der Ehe (O sublime bliss of marriage) in collaboration with librettist Michael Richey to commemorate the 50th wedding anniversary of one of his primary benefactors as well as one of Hamburg’s most renowned merchants and statesmen, Matthias Mutzenbecher and his wife Maria Catharina. As we might expect on such a momentous and rare occasion (life expectancy at the time averaged around 40), Telemann and Richey are both at their professional best, delivering an expertly crafted, often humorous and light-hearted set of works that surely must have delighted the couple and their numerous guests. It evidently impressed listeners in this live recording, where members of the audience at times are heard laughing, especially in the more engaging moments of the Serenata. As an event, the collaboration was and is clearly a success.
However, listeners to the recording, especially those who already have some experience with Telemann’s music, may feel less of an urgency to acquire this set since musically there is little here (with perhaps one exception) that makes a unique impression. In one of the final arias of the Serenata, “Mit schwimmenden Augen” (with watery eyes), Telemann’s unusual use of two chalumeaux beautifully heightens the sentiments of the setting; but that’s about it. Otherwise, Telemann is essentially on prodigious autopilot in the service of the occasion–knowing exactly how and when to effectively leverage a phrase, programmatically evoke an allusion, or vividly dramatize as well as soften the emotional context of Richey’s richly varied settings.
The sound is quite good, especially given the challenges of recording live. The singers are placed somewhat forward in the mix, but for most listeners this will be nothing to worry about; the audience’s obvious enjoyment is never distracting. Avid Telemann enthusiasts will find much to enjoy here, though newcomers are advised to begin elsewhere.