Eisler: Tagebuch / Suite No. 1 / Tempo der Zeit

Immerse yourself in the profound and introspective world of Hanns Eisler with this captivating album, released on January 1, 1978, by Eterna. This collection, spanning 49 minutes, offers a deep dive into the composer's masterful works, showcasing his unique voice and artistic vision.

The album opens with "Tagebuch des Hanns Eisler, Op. 9," a multi-part composition that reflects Eisler's personal and political reflections. This piece is a testament to his ability to weave complex emotions and intellectual depth into his music. Following this, "Suite No. 1, Op. 23" presents a series of movements that highlight Eisler's versatility, from the contemplative "Praeludium: Passacaglia" to the lively "Allegro energico."

The album concludes with "Tempo der Zeit, Op. 16," a choral work that captures the spirit of its time. This piece, with its dynamic shifts and powerful choruses, underscores Eisler's ability to engage with the zeitgeist and create music that resonates deeply.

Hanns Eisler, known for his choral cantata "Gegen den Krieg" and his use of twelve-tone technique, brings his distinctive style to this album. His compositions, rooted in his experiences as an émigré and his political beliefs, offer a rich tapestry of sound and meaning. This album is a perfect introduction to Eisler's work, showcasing his range and his enduring impact on the world of classical music.

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.