Weinberg: Children's Notebooks

Dive into the enchanting world of Mieczysław Weinberg's "Children's Notebooks," a captivating collection of piano pieces that showcase the composer's genius and versatility. Released on October 29, 2021, under the Animal Music label, this album features 23 tracks spanning three notebooks, each offering a unique blend of styles and moods.

Weinberg, a prolific and influential figure in 20th-century classical music, crafted these notebooks as educational tools and concert pieces, revealing his deep understanding of composition and his ability to create music that is both accessible and profound. The pieces range from lively and energetic to slow and contemplative, demonstrating Weinberg's mastery of various tempos and structures.

The album, performed by the talented Aneta Majerová, is a testament to Weinberg's enduring legacy. Each track, with its distinct character and charm, invites listeners to explore the rich tapestry of Weinberg's musical imagination. From the delicate "Larghetto" to the spirited "Presto," and the haunting "Lento funebre," this collection offers a comprehensive journey through Weinberg's creative genius.

Recorded in June 2021 at the Atrium, the album benefits from a pristine acoustic setting that allows Weinberg's intricate compositions to shine. Whether you are a seasoned classical enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "Children's Notebooks" promises an engaging and rewarding listening experience.

Mieczysław Weinberg, born in Warsaw in 1919, was a prolific composer and pianist whose life and work spanned the tumultuous landscapes of 20th-century Europe. Surrounded by music from an early age, Weinberg's parents worked in the Yiddish theatre, fostering his love for composition and performance. By the age of 12, he was already enrolled at the Warsaw Conservatory, where he honed his skills under the tutelage of Józef Turczyński. His journey took a dramatic turn with the outbreak of World War II, forcing him to flee Nazi-occupied Poland and seek refuge in the Soviet Union. Despite the challenges and discrimination he faced under Stalin, Weinberg's talent shone through, earning him recognition and a close friendship with the legendary Dmitri Shostakovich.

Weinberg's extensive body of work includes 22 symphonies, 17 string quartets, 7 operas, and numerous other compositions that blend traditional and contemporary forms with ethnic influences. His music, though not widely known during his lifetime, has since gained acclaim for its depth and emotional resonance. Weinberg's legacy is a testament to his resilience and artistic genius, making him one of the most intriguing and underappreciated composers of the 20th century.