Anna Stube gives a performance of Ernest Kanitz’s Violin Sonata
he survival of these new additions to the repertoire,’ says ARC Ensemble’s artistic director, Simon Wynberg.
The latest album by Canada’s ARC Ensemble showcases Ernest Kanitz’s Violin Sonata, op.10, as part of their ‘Music in Exile’ series. Released on October 31, this album brings to light composers who have been overlooked due to the ravages of war, anti-Semitism, and discrimination. Kanitz, a Jewish composer born in Austria in 1894, was a notable figure in Vienna’s music scene in the 1920s and 30s, regularly performing in concerts and on radio broadcasts.
However, his life took a turn when he was forced to flee Austria following the Nazis’ annexation in 1938. Despite establishing himself as a respected teacher and composer in the US, Kanitz’s music gradually faded into obscurity after his passing, disappearing from concert programs. The Violin Sonata featured on the album was composed in 1921, showcasing Kanitz’s work before his relocation to America.
For this recording, the ARC Ensemble invited 19-year-old Latvian violinist Anna Štube to join them, marking her debut in the recording industry. Štube, a student at the Glenn Gould School of the Royal Conservatory, delivers a remarkable performance on a 1667 Andrea Guarneri violin. ARC Ensemble’s artistic director, Simon Wynberg, emphasizes the importance of including talented young musicians like Štube to ensure the preservation and appreciation of these lesser-known works.
The collaboration between Anna Štube and pianist Kevin Ahfat of the ARC Ensemble brings Kanitz’s compositions back to life, shedding light on a composer whose legacy was nearly forgotten. By featuring works like the Violin Sonata on their album, ARC Ensemble continues to champion composers who have been marginalized by historical events and prejudices. Through their ‘Music in Exile’ series, ARC Ensemble aims to give voice to composers like Kanitz, allowing their music to be heard and appreciated by audiences today.
The release of the ‘Chamber Works of Ernest Kanitz’ album not only introduces audiences to Kanitz’s music but also serves as a tribute to his lasting legacy as a composer. This album is a testament to the resilience of artists who have faced persecution and discrimination, showcasing their talent and creativity despite the challenges they have endured. Through their poignant performances, Anna Štube, Kevin Ahfat, and the ARC Ensemble invite listeners to rediscover and celebrate Kanitz’s contributions to the world of music.