Hanns Eisler was a formidable composer and musician whose work has left an indelible mark on 20th-century music, particularly in the realms of political and film music. Born on July 6, 1898, in Leipzig, Germany, Eisler's life and career were as complex and fascinating as his compositions. He studied under Arnold Schoenberg in Vienna, and it was during this time that he began to develop his distinctive style, which would intertwine the techniques of the Second Viennese School with a commitment to political engagement and accessibility.

Eisler's collaborations with playwright Bertolt Brecht are amongst his most renowned contributions to music and theater, exemplified by pieces such as "Die Maßnahme" and "Die Mutter," which reflect their Marxist ideals. His political beliefs, however, made his life turbulent. Active in Germany until the rise of the Nazis, Eisler was forced into exile in the 1930s; he eventually relocated to the United States, where he scored numerous films and further developed his aesthetic of music for the people. His tenure in the US was cut short by the Red Scare, and he was deported in 1948 as an "un-American" element.

Eisler's body of work is diverse, spanning orchestral compositions, chamber music, and Lieder (art songs). The "Deutsche Sinfonie," Op. 50, demonstrates his orchestral prowess, while his film music highlights his ability to conjure evocative atmospheres within cinematic contexts. After returning to Europe, Eisler continued to compose until his death on September 6, 1962, in East Berlin. His legacy includes a vast array of works that continue to be celebrated for their craftsmanship and ideological fervor, as well as their innovative fusion of classical forms with contemporary content.

Genres

Austro-german Modernism

Early Modern Classical

Serialism

Latest Release

Hanns Eisler: Hollywood Songbook

Hanns Eisler

Album - 48 Tracks - Released February 16, 2024