S.B. from Cardiff
National Orchestra of Wales
(Cerddorfa Genedlaethol Cymru)
Conducted by Warwick Braithwaite

Composed among the woodlands of Weber's home in Holstein, his opera Der Freischutz has always been regarded as a masterpiece. The story tells of an evil spirit which, in exchange for a man's soul, will give him magic bullets which are bound to hit their mark, irrespective of the aim. 'The Seventh Bullet' was the name given to the opera on its first performance here in London in July, 1824, two years before Weber died.

The Overture is a fine example of Weber'a romantic music, and the supernatural basis of the tale is vividly suggested in the note of foreboding which makes itself heard as an undercurrent to the main joyous tunes.