The Baroque Rediscovery – Works by Paul Ignaz Lichtenauer

The music of the Baroque composer and Osnabrück Cathedral Kapellmeister Paul Ignaz Lichtenauer, whose works had long been forgotten, is experiencing an exciting rediscovery in this concert.

The Kölner Akademie, conducted by Michael Willens, will perform Lichtenauer’s works for the first time since their remarkable rediscovery. This will take place not far from the place where he carried out his significant musical activities: just one kilometer away from the Osnabrück Cathedral, where Lichtenauer assumed the position of organist in 1715 and later became Kapellmeister.

Lichtenauer, born into a musical family – his father was an organ builder and organist in Vienna – pursued his musical career from Koblenz-Ehrenbreitstein to Osnabrück. There, he quickly gained recognition for his liturgical music and was soon celebrated as “Capellmeister.”

His music is characterized by formal simplicity, yet it is full of charm and surprising twists. Often playful and virtuosic, it is immediately accessible and engages the audience from the start. The works performed in this concert are a rewarding rediscovery, offering a fascinating glimpse into the musical life of the 18th century.