Weinberg: The Passenger, Op. 97

Album Description

Mieczysław Weinberg's "The Passenger, Op. 97" is a profound and powerful opera that stands as a testament to the human spirit and the enduring impact of historical trauma. Composed in 1968, this two-act opera is based on Zofia Posmysz's autobiographical novel, which recounts her experiences as a concentration camp survivor. The libretto, penned by Alexander Medvedev, translates these harrowing memories into a gripping narrative that Weinberg brings to life with his distinctive musical voice.

The opera premieres with a prelude and unfolds over eight scenes, culminating in an epilogue, offering a comprehensive exploration of the themes of memory, guilt, and redemption. The story revolves around Lisa, a former Auschwitz guard now married to a West German diplomat, who encounters a woman on an ocean liner who bears a striking resemblance to a prisoner she once tormented. This chance encounter forces Lisa to confront her past and the atrocities she committed.

Weinberg's score is a masterclass in orchestration, blending dramatic intensity with moments of haunting beauty. The opera's premiere recording, released by Capriccio in 2021, features an exceptional cast and the Grazer Philharmoniker under the baton of Roland Kluttig. The performance captures the opera's full range, from its stark, chilling moments to its more tender, introspective passages.

"The Passenger, Op. 97" is not just a significant work in Weinberg's oeuvre but also a crucial addition to the canon of Holocaust remembrance. The opera's themes resonate deeply, offering a poignant reflection on the enduring legacy of the Holocaust and the power of art to confront and heal from historical trauma. This recording is a vital document of Weinberg's genius and a powerful testament to the enduring relevance of "The Passenger."

5 november 2021

2021 CapriccioNR

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.