Touching concert in Annaberg-Buchholz: Jewish lullabies live!

Touching concert in Annaberg-Buchholz: Jewish lullabies live!

An extraordinary concert project is coming up: On Saturday, August 30, 2025, the ensemble will bringecho_of_nothingThe event “OBHUT – Call into the Future” took place on stage in Annaberg-Buchholz. At 11 a.m. the Bergkirche St. Marien will be the first performance location, followed at 3 p.m. by the New Cemetery, where the Jewish memorial stones will come into focus. Admission is free and allows anyone interested to immerse themselves in the touching world of Jewish lullabies.

The artists Ingala Fortagne (vocals), Pina Rücker (percussion) and Martin Steuber (guitar) dedicate themselves to a program that delves deeply into themes of love, fear and longing. With these lullabies they want to awaken memories of the voids in Jewish life in Annaberg-Buchholz that were created by the Holocaust. The event sees itself as a strong symbol of humanity and hope for the future, sponsored by the city of Annaberg-Buchholz and the Land insicht e.V. association.

The power of music in the Holocaust

The music of European Jewry has a turbulent history, especially during the cruel period of the Holocaust. In fact, for many Jews, music served as a kind of escape from dreary reality and as an expression of their humanity. In ghettos such as Łódź and Warsaw, a lively music scene emerged, despite censorship by the authorities. Famous street musicians like Jankele Herschkowitz and private music performances gave people a moment of comfort and community despite the adverse circumstances.

Despite the harsh conditions, songs like “Es brent” by Mordecai Gebirtig were able to be created, which conveyed a prophetic message. Such songs, created in occupied areas or camps, are often the focus of memorial days to this day. The first collection of songs from this period, published by Schmerke Kaczerginski, contains a variety of Yiddish song lyrics and melodies and impressively documents the musical life of the survivors' inner strength.

Tradition and identity in Jewish music

Jewish music has always occupied a central place in religious life. It is not only heard, but also understood as an expression of devotion to God. In traditional church services, the singing voice plays a prominent role, while instruments are often omitted in favor of an intimate atmosphere. As Franz Kafka noted in 1911, singing is an essential component that shapes Jewish life.

Over the centuries, Jewish music has evolved and been shaped by various cultural influences. The reform movement in the 19th century brought about profound changes that included the integration of new musical styles. Despite the great threats that accompanied the Holocaust, Jewish musical culture experienced a remarkable resurgence after the war.

The current concert project in Annaberg-Buchholz is a moving example of how music serves as a medium to both keep memories alive and give new hope. Next Saturday everyone will have the opportunity to be part of this musical journey and experience the power of Jewish lullabies, which, despite their often mournful stories, also convey a message of life and humanity.