Invocation, op. 100, no. 2a (1969/80)

Harald Heilmann (1924–2018) — Invocation, op. 100, no. 2a (1969/80) for organ

German composer Harald Heilmann (1924–2018) was born in Aue and was educated in Leipzig. He was expelled from the Leipziger Musikhochschule for anti-communist activities. Heilmann continued studies under Hanns Eisler at the Academy of Arts in East Berlin, but was again targeted by the leadership for his perceived political activities. The catalyst was the accidental damaging of a lamp with a baton while conducting a cantata in praise of Stalin. Heilmann was labeled as a “saboteur” and “class enemy,” and he fled to West Germany. He completed his compositions studies in Cologne with the Swiss composer Frank Martin. Heilmann was active as an editor for several publishers (including SMV Heidelberg and Merseburger) and as a composer of many works. He has published numerous pieces in many genres and received many awards, including the Johann Wenzel Stamitz Prize from Esslingen.

Published by Astoria Verlag in “Zwei Invocationen”