Role

:

Composer  

Birth

:

December 28, 1898 in Bialystok, Poland

Death

:

June 28, 1985 in London, England

Genre

:

Film

 

 

Vocal

 

Mischa Spoliansky was a Russian-born composer who made a significant contribution to the world of classical music. He was born on December 28, 1898, in Białystok, Poland, which was then part of the Russian Empire. His family was Jewish, and they moved to Berlin when he was a child. Spoliansky showed an early interest in music and began studying piano at the age of six. He later studied composition with Franz Schreker at the Berlin Hochschule für Musik. Schreker was a significant influence on Spoliansky's music, and he encouraged him to explore new and unconventional sounds. Spoliansky's early works were influenced by the cabaret scene in Berlin, where he worked as a pianist and composer. He wrote music for several cabarets, including the famous Kabarett der Komiker. His music was often satirical and humorous, and it reflected the social and political climate of the time. In the 1920s, Spoliansky began to gain recognition as a composer. He wrote music for several films, including the silent movie "Das Alte Gesetz" (The Ancient Law), which is considered a classic of German cinema. He also wrote music for the stage, including the musical "Es Liegt in der Luft" (It's in the Air), which was a huge success in Berlin. Spoliansky's music was characterized by its wit, charm, and elegance. He was a master of melody and harmony, and his music was often described as "light music" or "entertainment music." However, he also wrote serious works, including chamber music and orchestral pieces. One of Spoliansky's most famous works is the song "Das Lila Lied" (The Lavender Song), which he wrote in 1920. The song was a protest against the persecution of homosexuals in Germany, and it became an anthem for the gay rights movement. The song was banned by the Nazis in 1933, and Spoliansky was forced to flee Germany. Spoliansky settled in London, where he continued to write music for films and the stage. He wrote the music for several British films, including "The Private Life of Henry VIII" and "Sanders of the River." He also wrote music for the West End stage, including the musical "The Dancing Years," which was a huge success. In the 1940s, Spoliansky moved to the United States, where he continued to work as a composer. He wrote music for several Hollywood films, including "The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp" and "The Red Shoes." He also wrote music for the Broadway stage, including the musical "The Gay Life." Spoliansky's music was admired by many of his contemporaries, including Kurt Weill and George Gershwin. He was a versatile composer who could write in many different styles, from cabaret songs to symphonic works. His music was often described as "timeless," and it continues to be performed and recorded today. Mischa Spoliansky died on June 28, 1985, in London, at the age of 86. He left behind a legacy of music that is still enjoyed by audiences around the world. His music is a testament to his talent and his ability to capture the spirit of his time.

More....