Hanns Eisler

Date of Birth: July 6, 1898

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: September 6, 1962

Biography

Hanns Eisler was an influential Austrian composer, born on July 6, 1898, in Leipzig, Germany. He is widely recognized for his contributions to 20th-century classical music, film scores, and political songs. Eisler studied under the famed composer Arnold Schoenberg, which significantly shaped his musical style, blending traditional and avant-garde elements. Eisler’s career was marked by his commitment to political activism, particularly his association with the communist movement. He collaborated closely with playwright Bertolt Brecht, creating music for many of Brecht’s plays, including “The Threepenny Opera” and “Mother Courage and Her Children.” During the rise of the Nazi regime, Eisler fled Germany due to his political beliefs and Jewish heritage. He eventually settled in the United States, where he continued to compose, notably contributing to Hollywood film scores. However, during the McCarthy era, Eisler was blacklisted and deported from the U.S. in 1948. Eisler returned to Europe and settled in East Berlin, where he became a prominent figure in the cultural life of the German Democratic Republic. He continued to compose prolifically until his death on September 6, 1962. Eisler left behind a significant legacy, including symphonies, chamber works, choral compositions, and over 500 songs.

5 Interesting Facts about Hanns Eisler

1. Hanns Eisler was a student of Arnold Schoenberg, one of the most significant composers of the 20th century.

2. He was blacklisted and deported from the United States during the McCarthy era due to his political beliefs.

3. Eisler wrote the national anthem for the German Democratic Republic (East Germany), titled “Auferstanden aus Ruinen” (“Risen from Ruins”).

4. He collaborated with Bertolt Brecht for over two decades, creating music for many of Brecht’s plays.

5. Eisler composed over 500 songs, many of which were politically charged and reflected his leftist ideologies.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hanns Eisler

1. “I never believed in the separation of art and politics.”

2. “The job of the artist is always to deepen the mystery.”

3. “A composer does not live in a musical vacuum; he is influenced by the world around him.”

4. “Music can serve as a potent tool for social change.”

5. “Art is not a mirror to reflect reality, but a hammer with which to shape it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Hanns Eisler’s net worth is not well-documented, but his significant contributions to music and his status as a prominent composer and intellectual in East Germany suggest that he was well-regarded and supported by the state.