Knabenherz

The well-known composer Susan Oswell has written a Cantata a voce sola for virtuous mezzosoprano and piano. Her work, with the title "Die Heldin von Gaeta" (The heroine of Gaeta), is a monologue sung by the last Queen of Naples, Maria Sofia, and can be considered one huge operatic scene similar to Rossini's "Giovanna d'Arco". The mezzosoprano part is very demanding: it contains full 3 octaves e - e''', coloratura and legato phrases, chromatic passages, free speech, extreme high and low registers in both recitativi and ariosi. I am very proud Susan Oswell wrote this masterpiece for my voice and will I present the cantata this year in Naples to the birthday of Queen Maria Sofia of Naples two Sicilies. To read more about the composer click here: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_Oswell Photo: © Susan Oswell 2024    

 Marie Sophie Amalie, duchess in Bavaria (Abb.1)   For at least 100 years a lot of prejudices exist about the life of Marie Sophie Amalie, born duchess in Bavaria and last Queen of the two Sicilies, sister of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. In my actual biography „Marie Sophie Amalie“ I publish historical documents which reveal the truth about many rumours concerning life, love and character of this unusual and often misunderstood woman. Aditionally 3 scientific essays (55 pages) are published containing important facts which are now revealed for the first time: 1. Where was the little duchess born? 2. Why is the picture above the original of Hanfstaengl's photography of Marie Sophie and NOT Sisi ? 3. Why does Marie Sophie deserve more credit as the best horse woman of her family? Marie Laznik's essays are published in German language and can now be ordered here: marie.laznik@web.de  Marie in Bayern - 3 Abhandlungen (Abb. 2)   Abb 1: wikimedia commons Abb...