Biography
From childhood onward, Mattheson appeared in an array of parts at the Hamburg Opera, taking on female roles until his voice broke. He also supplied instrumental support on multiple instruments during select productions. Once his tenor matured, he assumed numerous leading solo roles in operas by Handel—who formed a close personal bond with him—and by Keiser. As an organist he displayed virtuoso technique and performed widely abroad. From 1715 to 1728 he served as music director of Hamburg Cathedral, the period in which he composed most of his twenty-six oratorios. Although the bulk of his remaining output was operatic, he produced a large body of cantatas, assorted vocal works, chamber music, keyboard pieces, and fugues. His scores were generally undistinguished, especially in melodic appeal, yet his oratorios and passions frequently displayed strong dramatic episodes. In addition, Mattheson wrote extensively as a musicographer, covering every facet of the art—his own career, his areas of expertise, comprehensive guidance for Kapellmeisters, and forward-looking methods of musical pedagogy.