Weinberg: Wir gratulieren!, Op. 111

Experience the delightful charm of Mieczysław Weinberg's comic opera "Wir gratulieren!" (Congratulations!), a hidden gem of Soviet-era music, now available in a captivating live recording. This 1975 opera, Weinberg's own Russian libretto based on Sholem Aleichem's Yiddish play "Mazel Tov," is a witty and engaging exploration of love, class, and family dynamics. To navigate the Soviet censors, Weinberg emphasized the class conflict within the story, adding a layer of intrigue to this already engaging narrative.

This live performance, arranged by Henry Koch, brings together a stellar cast of vocalists, including Olivia Saragosa as Bejlja, Jeff Martin as Reb Alter, Robert Elibay-Hartog as Khaim, Anna Gütter as Fradl, and Katia Guedes as Madame. Accompanied by the Kammerakademie Potsdam under the baton of Vladimir Stoupel, the opera comes to life with vivid energy and musicality.

Spanning two acts and sixteen tracks, this recording captures the essence of Weinberg's unique compositional style, blending humor, warmth, and a touch of social commentary. From the opening scene to the final notes, "Wir gratulieren!" is a testament to Weinberg's genius and his ability to create compelling, character-driven music. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or new to the world of opera, this live recording of "Wir gratulieren!" is sure to enchant and entertain.