Active Violinist
The music of East Germany is particularly fascinating because of the rich history full of notable and significant composers and performers. The divide that occurred after World War II did not foster wide-spread acclaim or acceptance of musicians living and working behind the wall even though plenty of music was written and performed. You can learn more about the region and political climate of East Germany in my most recent blog post.
Read MoreThis month, the spotlight is on composer Ottmar Gerstner. He is difficult to learn much about BUT I’m excited to share a rough recording of myself playing a movement of his violin trio. He was a Nazi sympathizer during his lifetime which put him in a precarious political position after the war and he chose to move to Soviet German (later the GDR) which better aligned with his ideals and politics.
Read MoreInstallment number 5 in my exploration of East German composers features Fidelio Finke who sadly seems to have slipped into oblivion and has very much been forgotten, even though he wrote plenty for strings and the violin. Read on to find out a little bit about him and his music.
Read MoreThe 4th installment of my exploration of East German Violin Music project features Hanns Eisler. Eisler is probably the most internationally well-known composer in this project. He collaborated with Brecht, wrote a book with Adorno, studied with Schoenberg, wrote for Hollywood (he was even nominated for an Academy Award), and so much more. His politics defined him and his music - read on to find out about how that shaped his legacy and his music.
Read MoreI wrote this blog post while thinking about my beginning orchestra students at Longfellow Elementary. It started as me arranging their orchestra music for 4 violins and then, true to form, I couldn’t help digging around and learning a little more and then writing even more about the piece. Hope you enjoy Finlandia in several different arrangements...including mine AND the Indigo Girls.
Read MorePart 3 of my exploration of violin music from East Germany focuses on Johannes Paul Thilman from Dresden. While Thilman was very popular and celebrated during his lifetime his music has mostly been (sadly) forgotten - a shame because he wrote some wonderful violin music. I am so excited to introduce one of my new musical friends to you!
Read MoreFinally getting around to sharing my quarantine playlist with the world. Too bad there is only one song on it. The Bach Chaconne in D minor is holding major space in my life so I just couldn’t help myself. I needed to share it with you. Welcome to my current obsession. Join me on this wild, baroque ride.
Read MoreSpotlight on the life and music of Kurt Schwaen, a composer who lived and worked in East Germany and wrote many pieces for violin, and string chamber ensemble. This is the second installment in my Violin Music of East Germany series. I am writing about the people and music I uncover as I pursue this research and performance endeavor. Enjoy!
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