On the album ‘Maria Theresia Paradis’, pianist Ragna Schirmer, together with the Hofkapelle München under the direction of Rüdiger Lotter, dedicate themselves to a fascinating musician, her environment and the instruments of the time.

Maria Theresia Paradis was a remarkable musician and pedagogue of the 18th century who, despite going blind as a child, gained a firm place in musical life. Born in Vienna in 1759, she was a pianist, singer, composer and music teacher. Paradis, who went blind as a child, impressed with her musical talent and received a sound education from prominent musicians such as Leopold Koželuh and Antonio Salieri. She inspired many, including Valentin Haüy, who founded the first school for the blind in France. Paradis developed innovative teaching methods and devices for the blind, which were later taken further by Louis Braille. Braille, which is still in use today, will be exactly 200 years old this year.