Composer

:

Paul Hindemith

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Show/Musical

Compose Date

:

1930

Average_duration

:

23:45

'Let's Build a City' is a musical work composed by Paul Hindemith in 1952. The piece was premiered on October 10, 1952, in Frankfurt, Germany. The work is a satirical commentary on the post-World War II reconstruction efforts in Germany. The plot of 'Let's Build a City' revolves around a group of architects and city planners who are tasked with rebuilding a city that has been destroyed by war. The planners are optimistic and enthusiastic about their task, and they set out to create a city that is modern, efficient, and beautiful. However, as they begin to work, they encounter a series of obstacles and challenges that threaten to derail their plans. The musical work is divided into three movements. The first movement, titled 'The Builders', introduces the characters and sets the stage for the story. The second movement, titled 'The Obstacles', depicts the challenges that the planners face as they try to build their city. The final movement, titled 'The Triumph', portrays the successful completion of the city and the celebration that follows. One of the characteristics of 'Let's Build a City' is its use of satire. Hindemith uses the story to poke fun at the idealism and naivete of the planners, as well as the bureaucratic obstacles that they encounter. The music itself is also characterized by its use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies, which reflect the chaos and uncertainty of the post-war period. Overall, 'Let's Build a City' is a unique and thought-provoking musical work that offers a commentary on the challenges of post-war reconstruction. Its use of satire and unconventional harmonies make it a compelling and engaging piece of music that continues to be performed and studied today.

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