Di Freyd fun Yidishn Vort (2026)

Di Freyd fun Yidishn Vort (“The Joy of the Yiddish Word”) is a song cycle inspired by the modernist and surrealist movements in Yiddish art, originating in Eastern Europe and, through migration, continuing in America. In contrast to earlier literary traditions of the early modernist period (represented by writers such as Sholem Aleichem and I. L. Peretz) these artists embraced the stark, and at times bleak, realities (and unrealities) of their lived experience. Their work often confronts the suffering of human existence, as well as themes of sexuality, love, and the psychological dimensions of the world around them. Both male and female poets were (and continue to be) celebrated within this rich literary tradition. This song cycle seeks to carry forward a lineage in Yiddish art that has endured for over a thousand years, yet often remains hidden in plain sight.

The selected poems are imagined as a personal conduit of expression for the composer, exploring themes of trauma, sexuality, aging, and passion in deeply uncertain times.

Dedicated with immense gratitude to my therapist K.E. whose wisdom, patience and brilliance has changed my life. She’s the only person (other than myself) who will truly understand this.

This work for premiered by Rose Hegele, soprano and Elias Dagher, piano on the New Gallery Concert Series on April 18, 2026 at Longy School of Music.

A performance score is available upon request. Please fill out the contact form here.

April 18, 2026 | New Gallery Concert Series, Longy School of Music, Cambridge, MA. Rose Hegele & Elias Dagher