Carl Heinrich Graun

Carl Heinrich Graun , 1704-59, German composer, best known for his oratorio Der Tod Jesu (1755), for many years performed annually in Germany. As musical director to Frederick the Great, who wrote the libretto of Graun's Montezuma (1755), he was also director of the opera at Berlin, where his own Italianate operas and those of Johann Hasse dominated the stage. His brother, Johann Gottlieb Graun, 1703-71, also in the service of the court as a violinist, was the composer of 100 symphonies and many other works.

Graun, Karl (Heinrich) (b Wahrenbrück, Saxony, 1704; d Berlin, 1759). Ger. tenor and composer. Sang as ten. at Brunswick Opera 1725, but became 2nd Kapellmeister there 1726 and wrote several operas. Entered service of Crown Prince Frederick at Rheinsberg 1735. When Frederick (the Great) became King, Graun was made cond. of Berlin Royal Opera, 1740, for which he wrote 26 It. operas, incl. Rodelinda (1741), Cesare e Cleopatra (1742, revived Berlin 1992), and Ezio (1755), and dramatic cantatas. Also wrote Passion-cantata Der Tod Jesu (1755). Instr. works incl. hn. conc.