Composers: Blitzstein
Compositions: Waterfall Barcarolle, Innocent Psalm, Percussion Music for Piano, Cain, The Guest
Performers: Leonard Lehrman p
Catalogue Number: TOCCATA TOCC0438

Marc Blitzstein (1905-64) was an integral figure in mid-20th century American music. He wrote the socialist musical The Cradle Will Rock (directed by a young Orson Welles), and translated Brecht for a long-running production of The Threepenny Opera. His major work was the opera Regina, recorded in 1992 by Decca: his only opera to receive a production. In 1964 he was gay-bashed to death at the docks in Martinique.

An excellent pianist, Blitzstein wrote extensively for his instrument, mostly short vignettes. This...