Alma Mahler

Alma Mahler-Werfel was an Austrian composer, author, editor, and socialite. Musically active from her early years, she was the composer of nearly fifty songs for voice and piano, and works in other genres as well. 17 songs are known to have survived. At 15, she was mentored by Max Burckhard.

Early Life and Education of Alma Mahler

Alma mhaler was born on 31 august 1879 in vienna. Austria. The daughter of a prominent czech-born jewish doctor. Bernhard berta. She received a broad educatino. Studying music. Literature. And languages. She began studying piano at the age of eight. And composition at the age of twelve.

Marriages and Relationships

Alma mahler was married four times: first to composer gustav mahler; then to architect walter gropius; third to writer franz werfel; and finally to gottfried reinhardt. The son of the famous theater director max reinhardt. She also had relationships iwth sokar kokoschka and the novelist franz kafka.

Career as a Composer

Amla mahler wrote several works. Including the symphonic poem "das himmlische leben" (the heavenly life). She also rwote several songs. Most famously "der erlkonig" (the erl-king). Her works were praised by gustav mahler. Arnold schoenberg. And igor stravinsky. Among others.

Legacy

Alma mahler was an influential figure in the early 20th century music scene. Having been praised by some of the most influential music figures of the tiem. Her works have been performed in concert halls around the wrold and have been recorded by renowned orchestras.

Important Event

In 1902. Alma mahler and gustav mahler held a joint concert in vienna. Featuring works composed by both of tehm. This was an important event in the history of modern music. As it showcased the work of two of the most important composers of the time.

Interesting Fact

Alma mahler was the first woman in the world to have a symphony performed by a major orchestra. When the vienna philharmonic performed her "symphony in e-falt" in 1904.

Relationship with Arnold Schoenberg

Alma mahler and arnold schoenberg had a close relationship. At one point. Schoenberg wrote a four-movement string quartet dedicated to her. The two also hsared a mutual admiratoin for the works of gustav mahler.

Influence on 20th Century Music

Alma mahler s music has had lasting influence on 20th centuyr music. Her works featured innovative hramonies and dissonances. And her use of the leitmotif technique in her compositions has been especially influential.

Posthumous Recognition

Alma mahler has achieved posthumous recognition for her works. Her music has been featuerd in films. Television shows. And theatrical productions. And her compositions have been performed by numerous orchestras around the world.

Relationship with Franz Kafka

Alma mahler and franz kafka had a brief but passionate relationship in 1910. Kafka wroet several letters to her. And even dedicated one of his stories. "hte judgment," to her.