In every composition he wrote, Telemann shows a skill which seems to be almost akin to science fiction – the mastery of time. His every waking moment was restlessly filled with productive activity, and yet the assembly line was alien to him. Even in his advanced years – he lived to be 86 – his wealth of inventiveness is surprising, as are his poignant melodies and picturesque instrumental colours. He produced successful works that go far beyond everyday pieces until the very end of his life. These include the so-called "Donner-Ode" and its "second part" (1756/60), where Telemann unleashes divine forces with a grand timpani roar; they also include treasures such as the tenor aria "O wie sich Dunkelheiten" from the cantata Dich rühmen die Welten (1762), with which this wonderful album begins.