Forced to Flee: Vienna to Los Angeles 1938. Fascinating Stories, Fabulous Music. Opera

College of Marin Emeritus professor Paul Smith and Music from Marin Chamber
Players present works by some of the greatest composers of the 20th century—from
late 19th century romanticism, jazz and cabaret infused compositions, to the most
modern musical thoughts of the day—the only common denominator being they
were able to flee Vienna as the Nazis consolidated their grip over Austria in 1938.

Having seen the German experience since 1933, these mostly Jewish, but also left
leaning politically, free thinkers knew what was in store for them if they stayed in
Vienna. Invited to Los Angeles by the major universities, and Hollywood, they found a
welcoming cultural and intellectual haven away from the insanity of Europe.

Fantastic stories and fabulous music including:
Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s lush Suite for Piano (left hand) and String Trio, as well
as stunningly gorgeous art songs.

Arnold Schoenberg’s compositions from early waltzes and polkas to cabaret songs,
and into the modernist revolution he promulgated.

Hanns Eisler’s Hollywood Songbook, composed in conjunction with Bertolt Brecht,
another escapee, as well as a string trio

Art songs by Alma Mahler, former wife of Gustav, and later married to novelist/
playwright Franz Werfel.

Suite for soprano and piano from Ernst Krenek’s 1920s jazz opera Jonny Spielt Auf
and smaller works by Eric Zeisl, Ernst Toch, and Herbert Zipper.

FREE admission/FREE parking