As the sweltering heat that had gripped much of central and southern Europe finally softened its grip, a gentle breeze ushered in the Schubertiade Hohenems on 10 July 2025. Roughly 300 visitors gathered at the Markus-Sittikus Hall, a meticulously restored venue known for its exceptional acoustics, to witness the opening song recital featuring Katharina Konradi, Konstantin Krimmel, and pianist Daniel Heide.
Katharina Konradi, Konstantin Krimmel, and Daniel Heide delivered stunning Brahms Lieder at Schubertiade Hohenems 2025 opening recital.
The programme for the opening song recital was entirely devoted to the music of Johannes Brahms and featured selections from his “Deutsche Volkslieder” and his Lieder oeuvre.
Brahms’s approach to Lieder composition reflects a masterful synthesis of poetic sensitivity and musical sophistication that balances Romantic lyricism with Classical structural discipline.
Lyrical Embrace
Katharina Konradi, the trailblazing soprano from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, reaffirmed her status as a singer of international standing. Her crystal-clear voice, infused with a fascinating palette of tonal colours, breathed life into Brahms’ emotional landscapes. A Schubertiade veteran since 2020, Konradi’s warm, agile delivery and nuanced phrasing drew listeners into the heart of each lied, her storytelling both intimate and vibrant. Her ability to balance technical precision with emotional verve made every moment shimmer, as she captivated the hall with understated yet profound artistry.
Baritone Konstantin Krimmel, born in Ulm in 1993, matched Konradi’s brilliance with his commanding presence and introspective artistry. A rising star and BBC New Generation Artist (2021–2023), Krimmel’s performance was a masterclass in refined finesse. His perfect diction and nuanced richness illuminated the quiet intensity of Brahms’ lyrical beauty as each phrase was delivered with a depth that felt both personal and universal. Having graced the Schubertiade stage since 2020, Krimmel’s poised yet powerful interpretations left a lasting impression.
At the piano, Daniel Heide, a Weimar-born and Schubertiade regular since 2017, proved why he is among today’s most sought-after vocal accompanists. His sensitive and expressive touch elevated the vocal performances, weaving a poetic tapestry that complemented Konradi and Krimmel’s voices with seamless precision. Heide’s masterful balance of technical skill and emotional nuance, qualities showcased in his award-winning recordings with Krimmel and others, brought a radiant cohesion to the program.
A Glowing Start
At the opening recital of the Schubertiade Hohenems in July 2025, the audience was treated to an evening of technical mastery and raw emotion. The interaction between performers was a testament to their shared commitment to Brahms’ introspective genius, even though the piano participation was occasionally less discernible in its intricate contrapuntal details.
In a touching encore gesture, concert goers were invited to a sing-along with the famous Brahms “Wiegenlied,” setting in motion what promises to be an intimate and heartfelt Schubertiade gathering.
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Johannes Brahms: Deutsche Volkslieder, Book 1 (excerpts) (Pamela Coburn, soprano; Hermann Prey, baritone; Geoffrey Parsons, piano)
