The last musician of Auschwitz: A symphony of survival

A poignant tribute to resilience through music

Two Rivers Media has embarked on a profound journey with BBC Arts to bring forth a feature documentary titled “The Last Musician of Auschwitz”. This 90-minute film, co-funded by Access, the company renowned for its award-winning productions, aims to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz by delving into the stories of musicians who found solace and expression through music amidst the horrors of the Holocaust.

The heart of the story: Anita Lasker-Wallfisch

At the core of this documentary is Anita Lasker-Wallfisch, a 99-year-old cellist and the last surviving member of the Auschwitz orchestras. Her story is not just a testament to survival but also a powerful narrative of how music can be a beacon of hope in the darkest times. The film will also shed light on four other musicians from across Europe: Adam Kopyciński, Szymon Laks, Martin Rosebery D’Arguto, and Ilse Weber. These individuals, through their compositions and performances, created a unique form of resistance and resilience.

Unearthing lost melodies

One of the most compelling aspects of the documentary is the inclusion of a newly discovered work by Ilse Weber and a premiere recording of a lullaby composed by Adam Kopyciński in Auschwitz. These pieces are not just music; they are historical artifacts that carry the weight of the emotions and experiences of those who lived through the Holocaust.

A collaborative effort

The documentary is a collaborative effort with Alan Clements, managing director of Two Rivers Media, serving as the executive producer alongside Danny Cohen and Emily Blavatnik for Access. Deborah Lee is producing, with Toby Trackman directing. The international distribution will be handled by Abacus Media Rights.

A unique narrative approach

Danny Cohen, president of Access, describes the film as an innovative hybrid of observational documentary, expert interviews, archival footage, highly stylized drama, and music. This multifaceted approach ensures that the film is not only informative but also deeply moving and, at times, shocking. It aims to present the story of Auschwitz through the powerful lens of music, making it a unique and compelling watch.

The significance of music in the Holocaust

Suzy Klein, head of BBC Arts and Classical Music TV, emphasizes the importance of this documentary in showing how music itself can testify to the experiences of Holocaust musicians. On the 80th anniversary of Auschwitz’s liberation, this film serves as a poignant reminder of the endurance and resilience of the human spirit through the universal language of music.

Preserving history through storytelling

Jonathan Ford, managing director of Abacus Media Rights, highlights the significance of rescuing these stories and their music from oblivion. The dedication of family, friends, and scholars has been instrumental in bringing these narratives to light. This documentary is a powerful testament to their efforts and will resonate with audiences worldwide.

Recent projects by Two Rivers Media

This commission follows Two Rivers Media’s recent projects for the BBC, including “Confessions of a Teenage Fraudster” for BBC Three and iPlayer, and “Keeping It Up”, a documentary about Viagra for BBC Two’s Storyville. These projects showcase the company’s commitment to producing thought-provoking and impactful content.

A personal reflection

As a cinema and music enthusiast, the anticipation for “The Last Musician of Auschwitz” is palpable. The intertwining of historical narratives with the emotive power of music promises a deeply moving experience. The stories of these musicians are not just historical accounts; they are a testament to the indomitable human spirit. The film’s innovative approach, combining various narrative styles, ensures that it will be a unique and unforgettable viewing experience.

For those interested in exploring more about the musicians and their stories, you can watch the trailer for The Last Musician of Auschwitz.

In the realm of music, the documentary’s soundtrack, featuring the newly discovered works, will undoubtedly be a poignant addition to any music lover’s collection. You can listen to the compositions on Spotify.

This documentary is not just a film; it is a symphony of survival, a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, and a reminder of the power of music to transcend even the darkest of times.