Knabenherz

In 2024 I wrote my libretto "Die Heldin von Gaeta" (The heroine of Gaeta) to have it composed as a Cantata a voce sola for voice and piano like Gioacchino Rossini's masterpiece "Giovanna d'Arco". It 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".   Die Heldin von Gaeta (Libretto) Susan Oswell was the first one to write a music for my libretto. In the end she was not satisfied with her work, so she decided not to publish it. So in 2026 there will be a competition for the musical setting of the vocal piece. Young composers are welcome to apply... Susan Oswell's Cover The cantata will be performed at a prestigious concert hall in Naples. I am very exited to see how the musical versions will differ and which one will be presented the day of the international debut!

 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 In my actual biography „Marie Sophie Amalie“ I publish historical documents which reveal the truth about many rumours concerning life, love and character of this unusual and often misunderstood woman.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...