The German American Heritage Center in Davenport, Iowa, is set to host a special musical event as part of its popular “Kaffee und Kuchen” series. On March 9, the center will present Friendship: Connections in New Lands, a recital inspired by the photography exhibition With you I am / with you, i am myelf by Oranit Ben Zimra. The recital will feature gifted soprano Lily Arbisser and esteemed French pianist Dimitri Malignan.

The exhibition and the recital both explore the theme of friendship, highlighting how it strengthens us and transcends borders. The recital will include works by Arnold Schoenberg and his friend George Gershwin, as well as Dmitri Shostakovich and Mieczysław Weinberg. These friendships developed after Weinberg and Schoenberg were forced to emigrate due to the anti-Semitic atmosphere in their respective countries before and during World War II.

Lily Arbisser, described as an “individual-timbred soprano” by Opera News, whose voice “floats effortlessly” over the orchestra according to Feast of Music, has had a remarkable career. Recent highlights include joining Ravinia’s Steans Music Institute in Chicago as a vocal fellow, winning first prize in the National Federation of Music Clubs’ Biennial Young Artist Competition, and being a semifinalist in the Kurt Weill Foundation’s prestigious Lotte Lenya Competition. Arbisser made her debut at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall as Suzu in Riyoichi Saito’s chamber opera Dojoji.

Arbisser’s repertoire is diverse, including Spanish, German, French, Italian, Russian, Yiddish, and Hebrew songs, music of contemporary American composers, and dodecaphonic compositions. Her performances span oratorio and operatic stages, and she has a consistent affinity for art song performance in both salon-style house concerts and traditional recitals.

Brilliant young French pianist Dimitri Malignan has made a name for himself with his maturity, musical intelligence, and great sensibility. At just 19 years old, he won the Prix Cortot 2017 and was recently awarded the 3rd Prize, as well as the Audience Award and the Bach Award at the Concours Musical International de Montréal in 2021. Born in Paris to architect parents in a music-loving family of Romanian origins, Malignan is the grandson of composer Henry Mălineanu (1920-2000).

Malignan began his piano studies at the age of five with Nicolas Horvath and has since won more than 20 international competitions. Notably, he received the third prize, as well as the Audience Award and the J.S. Bach Award, at the Concours International Musical de Montréal, and first prize at the 2016 Mihail Jora Music Competition in Bucharest.

This recital is more than just a musical performance; it is a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the resilience of the human spirit. The friendship between Schoenberg and Gershwin, and between Shostakovich and Weinberg, are poignant examples of how art and music can bridge cultural and geographical divides. These friendships were forged in the crucible of adversity, as both Schoenberg and Weinberg were forced to emigrate due to the anti-Semitic atmosphere in their respective countries before and during World War II.

In a world increasingly divided by borders and ideologies, the Friendship: Connections in New Lands recital serves as a reminder that music and friendship can transcend these barriers. The recital will take place at the German American Heritage Center in Davenport on March 9, with the “Kaffee und Kuchen” program beginning with refreshments at 1:30 p.m. and the music starting at 2 p.m. Admission is free, and more information is available by calling (563) 322-8844 and visiting GAHC.org.

The Impact of Music and Friendship

Music has a unique ability to bring people together, regardless of their backgrounds. The friendships highlighted in this recital are a testament to this power. For instance, the collaboration between Schoenberg and Gershwin, despite their different musical styles, produced works that are still celebrated today. Similarly, the friendship between Shostakovich and Weinberg, forged in the midst of political turmoil, resulted in compositions that continue to inspire.

In the United States, we have seen numerous examples of how music can bridge divides. From the civil rights movement to contemporary social justice initiatives, music has been a unifying force. For example, the song “We Shall Overcome,” which became an anthem for the civil rights movement, is a powerful example of how music can inspire and unite people.

The Role of Cultural Institutions

Cultural institutions like the German American Heritage Center play a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. By hosting events like the Friendship: Connections in New Lands recital, they provide a platform for artists to share their work and for audiences to engage with diverse cultural expressions. These institutions also serve as educational resources, offering insights into the history and traditions of different communities.

In the context of the United States, cultural institutions are essential for fostering a sense of belonging and understanding among diverse populations. They help to preserve the rich tapestry of American culture, which is woven from the threads of many different traditions. By supporting these institutions, we can ensure that future generations have access to the cultural heritage that makes our country unique.

Addressing Potential Counterarguments

Some may argue that cultural events like this recital are niche and do not appeal to a broad audience. However, the diversity of the repertoire and the universal themes of friendship and resilience make this event accessible to a wide range of people. Moreover, the free admission policy ensures that anyone can attend, regardless of their financial situation.

Another potential counterargument is that such events are not relevant to contemporary issues. On the contrary, the themes of friendship, resilience, and cultural exchange are as relevant today as they were in the past. In a world grappling with issues of division and intolerance, events like this recital remind us of the power of human connection and the importance of embracing diversity.

Looking Ahead

The Friendship: Connections in New Lands recital is just one example of how music and cultural institutions can bring people together. As we look to the future, it is essential to continue supporting and promoting these initiatives. By doing so, we can foster a more inclusive and understanding society, where the power of friendship and music transcends borders and divides.