Stefan Wolpe was a German-American composer whose inventive work traversed the tumultuous developments of the 20th century. Born on August 25, 1902, in Berlin, his early musical foundations were embedded within the expressionist tradition. The turbulent political landscape of his time, particularly the rise of Nazism, which was hostile to his Jewish heritage and to the avant-garde art he produced, compelled him to flee Germany in 1933, ultimately settling in the United States in 1938.

Wolpe's music is noted for its eclectic style and innovative use of various compositional techniques ranging from atonality to serialism, and jazz influences to Middle Eastern melodies, reflecting his wide range of interests and political commitment. He was deeply involved in the development of abstract expressionism, influencing and collaborating with visual artists. His teaching career in the U.S. included stints at the prestigious Black Mountain College, the Music Academy of the West, and the Long Island Music Academy, influencing generations of composers and musicians with his forward-thinking pedagogy. Truly ahead of his time, Wolpe's works, such as the "Battle Piece" for piano and his notable compositions for chamber ensembles, continue to challenge and inspire with their intensity and complexity. Stefan Wolpe passed away on April 4, 1972, in New York City, leaving behind a legacy of daring and provocative art, which has been increasingly recognized and celebrated in the pantheon of modern classical music.

Genres

American Contemporary Classical

Austro-german Modernism

Serialism

Latest Release

Stefan Wolpe, Vol. 8: Music for 2 Pianos

Stefan Wolpe

Album - 21 Tracks - Released April 5, 2019