Composer

:

Mordechai Gebirtig

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Average_duration

:

3:36

"Yankele" is a Yiddish song composed by Mordechai Gebirtig in 1938. The song was written in response to the growing anti-Semitic sentiment in Poland at the time. It tells the story of a young Jewish boy named Yankele who is forced to leave his home and flee to America to escape persecution. The song premiered in Krakow, Poland in 1938 and quickly became popular among Jewish communities throughout Europe. It was often performed at Jewish cultural events and gatherings, and was even sung by Jewish resistance fighters during World War II. "Yankele" is a simple and poignant song, with a melody that is both haunting and uplifting. The song is divided into three movements, each of which tells a different part of Yankele's story. The first movement describes Yankele's life in Poland before he is forced to flee. It paints a picture of a happy and carefree childhood, filled with family, friends, and the joys of youth. The second movement describes Yankele's journey to America. It is a somber and reflective section, with a melody that is slow and mournful. The lyrics describe the hardships and dangers of the journey, as well as the fear and uncertainty that Yankele feels as he leaves his home behind. The final movement is a triumphant and hopeful section, with a melody that is joyful and uplifting. It describes Yankele's arrival in America, where he is welcomed by a new community of friends and supporters. The lyrics celebrate the resilience and strength of the Jewish people, and offer a message of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity. Overall, "Yankele" is a powerful and moving song that captures the spirit of the Jewish people during a time of great hardship and persecution. Its simple melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a beloved classic in the Jewish musical tradition, and it continues to be performed and celebrated to this day.

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