Eisler: Aus dem Hollywooder Liederbuch

"Eisler: Aus dem Hollywooder Liederbuch" is a captivating collection of songs by the renowned composer Hanns Eisler, released on April 2, 1978, under the Eterna label. This album is a testament to Eisler's prolific and influential career, particularly his decade spent in America (1938–1948), where he created a significant body of work, including notable film scores and instrumental pieces.

The album features a diverse range of compositions, from elegies and fragments to evocative songs like "Winterspruch," "Nightmare," and "In Sturmesnacht." Eisler's time in Hollywood is reflected in the "Hollywood-Elegien" series, which offers a poignant reflection on his experiences and the political climate of the time. The "Anakreontische Fragmente" and "Hölderlin Fragmente" series delve into classical influences and philosophical musings, showcasing Eisler's deep intellectual and artistic roots.

With a duration of 41 minutes, this album is a concise yet powerful exploration of Eisler's musical genius. It includes both well-known and lesser-explored works, providing a comprehensive overview of his creative output during his exile in America. Whether you're a longtime fan of Eisler's work or a newcomer to his compositions, "Eisler: Aus dem Hollywooder Liederbuch" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.

Hanns Eisler, born in Leipzig in 1898, was a prolific and versatile German-Austrian composer whose life and work were deeply intertwined with the political and cultural upheavals of the 20th century. A committed socialist and staunch anti-fascist, Eisler's music reflected his political beliefs, earning him both acclaim and persecution. He studied under Arnold Schoenberg, becoming one of his most talented pupils, and later collaborated extensively with Bertolt Brecht, creating powerful works that combined music and text to address social and political issues. Eisler's compositions span a wide range of genres, from film scores and political songs to orchestral and choral works, showcasing his remarkable versatility. His most enduring legacy is perhaps the national anthem of East Germany, a testament to his enduring influence. Despite facing exile and persecution, first from the Nazis and later from McCarthyism in the United States, Eisler's music remains a powerful expression of his unwavering commitment to his artistic and political ideals.