Weinberg: The Passenger

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the profound and haunting world of Mieczysław Weinberg's opera "The Passenger," a powerful exploration of memory, guilt, and the enduring shadows of the past. This gripping two-act opera, composed in 1968, is based on the novella by Auschwitz survivor Zofia Posmysz, and delves into the complex psychological landscape of a former Auschwitz guard who encounters one of her victims years after the war.

Recorded during the acclaimed March 2024 run at the Teatro Real in Madrid, this digital audio album features the stunning performances of the Chorus and Orchestra of the Teatro Real, conducted by the renowned Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla. The stellar cast includes Amanda Majeski, Daveda Karanas, Nikolai Schukoff, and Gyula Orendt, who bring depth and nuance to their roles, making this recording a standout in the classical genre.

"The Passenger" is a testament to Weinberg's mastery of composition, blending dramatic intensity with contemplative reflection. The opera's libretto, adapted by Alexander Medvedev, weaves a narrative that is both poignant and unsettling, highlighting the enduring impact of historical trauma. The recording captures the opera's full scope, from its dramatic arias to its intricate orchestrations, providing a comprehensive and immersive experience.

This album is not just a musical performance but a historical and cultural artifact, released to coincide with the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz on January 27, 1945, Holocaust Remembrance Day. It serves as a poignant reminder of the past and a call to remember the atrocities of the Holocaust, ensuring that the stories of those who suffered are never forgotten.

With a duration of 2 hours and 35 minutes, "The Passenger" is a substantial and rewarding listen, offering a deep dive into one of the most powerful operas of the 20th century. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or new to the genre, this recording of Mieczysław Weinberg's "The Passenger" is an essential addition to your collection.

24 januari 2025

℗ 2025 Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Mieczysław Weinberg

Mieczysław Weinberg, born in Warsaw in 1919, was a prolific and versatile composer whose life and work spanned two continents and multiple musical genres. Surrounded by music from a young age, Weinberg taught himself to play the piano and began composing at an early age. His formal training at the Warsaw Conservatory was interrupted by the outbreak of World War II, forcing him to flee Poland and leave his family behind. Weinberg's journey led him to the Soviet Union, where he would spend the rest of his life and become a close friend of Dmitri Shostakovich.

Weinberg's compositions are a testament to his resilience and creativity, blending traditional and contemporary forms with ethnic influences. His extensive catalog includes 22 symphonies, 17 string quartets, seven operas, six concertos, and over 200 songs, as well as numerous film scores. Despite his prolific output, Weinberg's music remained largely unknown to the Western world during his lifetime. However, in recent decades, his works have gained recognition and acclaim, revealing a unique voice that deserves a place among the great composers of the 20th century. Weinberg's story is one of perseverance and artistic integrity, making his music a compelling exploration of the human spirit.