Jewish Chamber Orchestra Hamburg

The shipowner Albert Ballin turned Hamburg into a central hub for Jewish migrants from Eastern Europe who were fleeing pogroms and poor living conditions. Over two million Jews travelled to the United States on Hapag ships during this period. Ballin ensured that the emigration halls in Veddel offered better conditions from 1901 onwards, including heated accommodation, lounges and a synagogue, which made the journey easier for many. Among them were the ancestors of George Gershwin. The Jewish Chamber Orchestra Hamburg and musical guests commemorate the man who made this exodus possible – and thus had a lasting impact on the history of Hapag, Hamburg and the American jazz world.
The Jewish Chamber Orchestra Hamburg plays popular, classical and world-premiere compositions, with the HfMT Big Band performing a medley by Irving Berlin and star pianist Levi Schechtmann combining classical virtuosity with modern sounds.. Gustav Peter Wöhler reads, and as a festive finale, the Jewish Chamber Orchestra plays a new interpretation of Hava Nagila – and sings it with all the performers and the audience.

PERFORMERS

Jewish Chamber Orchestra Hamburg chamber orchestra

Bigband der HfMT Hamburg bigband

Alexandra Lachmann vocals

Levi Schechtmann piano

Charlotte Melkonian violoncello

Emanuel Meshvinski director and moderation

Gustav Peter Wöhler reading

PROGRAM

Dr. Carsten Brosda, Senator für Kultur und Medien der Freien und Hansestadt Hamburg
opening remarks

Irving Berlin
White Christmas, Blue Skies, Cheek to Cheek

Emanuel Meshvinski
Begrüßung

Edvard Moritz
Molto Andante

Gustav Peter Wöhler
reading

- Interval -

New work for violoncello and orchestra (world premiere)

Gustav Peter Wöhler
reading

George Gershwin
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in F major

Emanuel Meshvinski
expressions of gratitude

Hava Nagila
audience and musicians singing together