Sonett for Wien

There are many connections between the composers of this programme. First of all, there is the spirit of the waltz and also their Hebraic faith. There are also more intimate ties: Schönberg and Korngold both studied with Zemlinsky, who also encouraged Ullmann; Schönberg first married Zemlinsky's sister Mathilde, while his son Ronald was to marry Erich Zeisl's daughter Barbara in America. In addition to this, there is the great classical-romantic tradition of the Lied that nourished the identity of all of them, a common quest for new expressive paths, and an astonishing ability to use the most disconcerting sense of humour and to show an irresistible passion for life despite the dark clouds of destiny.