Eisler: Chöre

Hanns Eisler's 'Eisler: Chöre' is a captivating collection of choral pieces, released on 28 March 1976 by Eterna. This 49-minute album showcases Eisler's mastery of the genre, with a diverse range of works that highlight his unique compositional style. From the stirring '3 Männerchöre, Op. 10' to the poignant '2 Männerchöre, Op. 17', each piece demonstrates Eisler's ability to craft music that is both powerful and thought-provoking.

The album features a wide range of themes, including social commentary and political reflection, as seen in works such as 'Bauernrevolution' and 'Kurze Anfrage (Lied der Arbeitslosen)'. Eisler's music is characterised by its intensity and emotional depth, making for a compelling listening experience. With its rich harmonies and complex arrangements, 'Eisler: Chöre' is an album that will appeal to fans of classical music and those interested in exploring the works of this influential composer. Through his music, Eisler invites listeners to engage with the world around them, and to reflect on the issues that shape our society.

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.