Weill: Die sieben Todsünden, Suite panaméenne & Die Dreigroschenoper Suite

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the timeless compositions of Kurt Weill with this exquisite remastered collection, released on April 14, 2023, by First Hand Records. This album, "Weill: Die sieben Todsünden, Suite panaméenne & Die Dreigroschenoper Suite," showcases the genius of Weill through a live concert performance recorded by the Basel Sinfonietta in 1991 and 1993. The album spans a rich hour and five minutes, featuring 21 tracks that highlight Weill's mastery of orchestral and operatic forms.

The album opens with the iconic "Die Dreigroschenoper," arranged for orchestra by Max Schonherr, including beloved pieces such as "Moritat von Mackie Messer" and "Polly's Lied." Weill's ability to blend humor, social commentary, and memorable melodies is on full display in these tracks. The suite from "Die Dreigroschenoper" is followed by "Die sieben Todsünden," a ballet cantata that explores the seven deadly sins through a captivating narrative and rich orchestration.

Additionally, the album features the lesser-known but equally enchanting "Suite panaméenne," offering a taste of Weill's versatility with its introduction to tango, march, and foxtrot rhythms. The album also includes two songs sung in German: "September Song" from "Knickerbocker Holiday" and "Surabaya Johnny" from "Happy End," providing a glimpse into Weill's lyrical prowess and his ability to convey deep emotions through song.

Conducted by Mark Fitz-Gerald and featuring the talented Serena Wey, this remastered recording brings new life to Weill's compositions, making it a essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you are a longtime fan of Weill's work or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of one of the 20th century's most influential composers.

14 april 2023

2023 First Hand Records

About Kurt Weill

Kurt Weill, born in Dessau, Germany, in 1900, was a pioneering composer whose innovative spirit bridged the worlds of classical music and theater. Best known for his collaborations with Bertolt Brecht, Weill's works often carried a sharp social commentary, reflecting his belief in music's power to serve a socially useful purpose. Their most famous collaboration, "The Threepenny Opera," introduced the iconic ballad "Mack the Knife" and revolutionized the musical theater landscape. Weill's compositions, ranging from operas to Broadway musicals, seamlessly blended various musical styles, including American popular music, ragtime, and jazz. His notable works include "Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny," "Knickerbocker Holiday," featuring the beloved "September Song," and "Lost in the Stars," which addressed the pressing issue of racism in South Africa. Weill's journey took him from his early years in Germany to his later life in the United States, where he became a naturalized citizen in 1943. His legacy endures as one of the most important and innovative composers of the 20th century.