Mathis der Maler
Mathis der Maler, banned by the Nazis, is an opera in seven scenes which was first performed in Zurich on 28 May 1938. Both the music and libretto are by German composer Paul Hindemith.
The title figure is the German Renaissance painter Matthias Grünewald (c1470-1528), whose Isenheim Altarpiece inspired much creative twentieth century work. During the early stages of the opera, Hindemith also wrote a symphony by the same name, which became one of his best known works.
Hindemith was interested in the Protestant Reformation, his opera depicts the struggle for artistic freedom - both Grünewald's, in Renaissance times, and his own, during the rise of the Nazis.
A selection of articles about Mathis der Maler
Ensemble. Philosophy and Theology - Paul Hindemith's 'Mathis der Maler' at the Enescu Festival in Bucharest impresses Giuseppe Pennisi
Ensemble. Pilgrimages of the Soul - Giuseppe Pennisi visits Italy's Sagra Musicale Umbra