Carl Maria von Weber - Der Freischütz arrangirt in Harmoniemusik (WOLF)

Information

Composer: Carl Maria von Weber

• Der Freischütz, Op. 77, J. 277 (arr. Karl Flachs)
• Adagio und Rondo J. Anh.II.31
• Walzer mit trio (after Mayenblümlein so schön, Mayenblümlein, so schön, J. 117 No. 3)

WOLF

Jean-Philippe Poncin, clarinet & direction

Date: 2026

Label: Ricercar

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Carl Maria von Weber's Der Freischütz has enjoyed continuous acclaim since its June 1821 premiere, quickly becoming a definitive model for German Romantic opera. Following a widespread tradition of transcribing successful operas during the era, numerous transcriptions of the work emerged. The most significant arrangement was crafted by Karl Flachs, around 1822 and published in 1825. This historical transcription delivers an extensive curation of the opera’s principal movements, featuring its famous overture alongside its most critical arias and choruses, preserving the essence of Weber's masterpiece within a popular 19th-century domestic performance format.

Founded by clarinetist Jean-Philippe Poncin, WOLF is an acclaimed Belgian musical ensemble dedicated to performing 18th- and 19th-century chamber repertoire on period instruments. Comprising highly sought-after historically informed performance specialists, the group regularly graces Belgium's most prestigious stages. Following their critically acclaimed 2021 debut CD featuring Mozart and Beethoven quintets, WOLF released their second album in the summer of 2026 under the Ricercar label. This landmark recording honors the bicentenary of Carl Maria von Weber's death with Karl Flachs's 1822 wind version of Der Freischütz, marking the first time this specific arrangement has been recorded on period instruments.