Carl Maria von Weber (1786–1826) is best known for his operas “Der Freischütz” (1821), “Euryanthe” (1823) and “Oberon” (1826). From a young age, he was fascinated by hunting parties, forest scenes and the resonant sound of horns. His first complete opera, “Silvana” was premiered in Frankfurt in 1810. It is a genuine curiosity, as the title character does not sing a single note throughout, but instead dances and mimes.

The overture is followed by the grand entrance of a group of noble hunters,...