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Review by JJ May 20, 2008 (3 of 3 found this review helpful)
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As a student of Beethoven, with whom he spent several months when the Bonn master was composing his oratorio “Christus am Ölberge”, Ferdinand Ries (1784-1838) also felt the pressing need to compose a work of the same sort. After a first try, commissioned in 1829, Ries’ began his great vocal work “Die Könige in Israel” seven years later in 1836. Based on a book by the Aix priest Wilhelm Smets (1796-1848) that tells the story of Saul and David, which moreover Handel had already treated, Ries developed a grandiose score he enthusiastically wrote about: “I have sketched out the last choir of my oratorio, and I am now developing it – I have also already finished a recitative and an air, and there remains a quintet for me to do – I will be happy when everything is finished.” And the public confirmed his enthusiasm, for despite grumpy critics, the work was a great success. Which made Ferdinand Ries philosophical: “What Europe has given to me and recognized in me, no critic can take back.” Today, thanks to the obstinacy of conductor Hermann Max, this enthusiasm can be shared. Ries’ oratorio is full of wonders. With a fine cast, an ideal chorus and conducting vibrating with fervor, “Die Könige in Israel” earns enthusiastic kudos for its constant enjoyment. A wonderful rediscovery.
Jean-Jacques Millo
Translation Lawrence Schulman
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