Bohemian folk music, absorbed during Weinberger's childhood on his grandparents' farm, became central to his entire musical thinking, influencing his 'Schwanda' opera and other works.
Critical Reception
In just four years, 'Schwanda the Bagpiper' saw 2000 performances and was translated into 17 languages, making it a huge success.
Performer Biography
Karl-Heinz Steffens has been appointed the designated Music Director of the Prague State Opera, a position he will assume in August 2019.
Composer Biography
Jaromír Weinberger's mother and twin sister were murdered by the Nazis, and he later took his own life in 1967, plagued by depression and poor health.
Composition History
Weinberger's opera 'Schwanda the Bagpiper' premiered on April 27, 1927, at the National Theatre in Prague, quickly making him an internationally celebrated composer.
Composer Biography
Jaromír Weinberger (1896-1967), the composer, was considered a prodigy, playing piano at five and composing and conducting by age ten.
Performer Biography
Karl-Heinz Steffens, the conductor on this album, was previously a highly respected solo clarinettist for the Bavarian Radio and Berlin Philharmonic Orchestras.
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