Helmut Eisel: RHAPSODY FOR AN UNKNOWN KLEZMER - Talking Clarinet meets Orchestra

Helmut Eisel - clarinet; Württembergische Philharmonie Reutlingen - Conductor: Daniel Huppert; Chooories from the Liederkranz Reutlingen; Sing Kids and Capo da from the Gesangverein Raidwangen

Helmut Eisel is considered one of the most creative and versatile clarinetists in Europe and beyond. He was introduced to Klezmer music through his friendship with Giora Feidman, and it was Feidman's inspiration that led to the title "Phoenix," which Eisel now makes the centerpiece of his new CD. "RHAPSODY FOR AN UNKNOWN KLEZMER – Talking Clarinet meets Orchestra" is the title of the recording, created in collaboration with the Württembergische Philharmonie Reutlingen under the direction of Daniel Huppert. This recording presents Klezmer music in symphonic format, allowing the clarinet to become the voice of a dialogue between cultures.

The central work of the CD is Helmut Eisel's "Rhapsody for an Unknown Klezmer," which the composer and performer dedicates to the Klezmorim persecuted and murdered in the Holocaust, allowing their musical legacy to continue to live on in the present. Vital rhythms and melancholic melodies meet moments of musical tension, and at the end, a children's choir ("Chooories" from the Liederkranz Reutlingen, "Sing Kids" and "Capo da" from the Gesangsverein Reutlingen, directed by Thomas Preiß) sings the song of the Phoenix rising from the ashes - in the enduring hope of communication in the language of music.

Surrounding the "Rhapsody" are various shorter pieces, highlights of Eisel's own repertoire such as "Babsis Freilach," "Hot & Cool," or "Trolls Freilach," which Eisel has previously recorded in various band formations and now presents for clarinet and orchestra. A calm centerpiece of the CD is also an arrangement of Max Bruch's famous "Kol Nidrei," which Helmut Eisel interprets on the basset clarinet from the very personal perspective of a Klezmer musician, singing as well as reveling in playful improvisations.

For more information, visit: www.helmut-eisel.de